Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Tragedy Strikes as Powerline Collapses in Portland, Oregon, Resulting in Three Fatalities

A devastating incident occurred in Portland, Oregon on Wednesday, as a powerline collapsed, claiming the lives of three individuals. However, amidst the tragedy, there was a glimmer of hope as a baby was miraculously rescued from the scene.

The Portland Fire & Rescue Department swiftly responded to the distress call near the intersection of NE 122 and NE Siskiyou in the Russel Neighborhood at approximately 11:45 a.m. on Wednesday. The initial report indicated a possible car fire in the area.

According to the department’s news release, the situation quickly escalated when they received additional information from the dispatch center. Reports indicated a person on fire in the street, a fallen powerline, and multiple victims in need of immediate assistance.

Responders were faced with an emotionally charged and rapidly evolving situation. They prepared for every possible scenario based on the information received.

Upon their arrival at the scene, firefighters discovered three individuals approximately 35 feet away from a full-size SUV. The vehicle was entangled with a fallen powerline, and a large tree branch rested on top of it.

Tragically, two adults and a reported teenager were confirmed to be deceased after a medical evaluation. However, the baby, who was found to be unaffected by the incident, was swiftly transported to a local hospital. The child was located with a community member residing in an adjacent area.

The department clarified that no flames were present at the scene, as the power company had de-energized the fallen powerline.

An investigation into the incident revealed that the occupants of the SUV had exited the vehicle after the branch brought down the live powerline onto their car. Tragically, when their feet touched the ground while their bodies were still in contact with the vehicle, they became part of an active electrical circuit, resulting in their fatal electrocution.

This tragic incident occurred during a period of severe winter weather in Oregon, which has affected various parts of the United States. The National Weather Service reported that roads in NW Oregon and SW Washington, especially in the Portland/Vancouver metro area, remained covered in ice and extremely slick.

Due to the hazardous conditions, the city of Portland issued a travel advisory, urging individuals to avoid travel until conditions improve. The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) emphasized the potential risks associated with freezing rain, which was forecasted for the evening.

Residents were advised to be prepared for worse conditions than expected, as forecasts come with uncertainty regarding the timing and amount of freezing rain.

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As investigations into this tragic incident continue, it serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by severe weather conditions and the importance of exercising caution and following official advisories during such periods.

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