Fairfax teen killed by electrical current

A Northern Virginia teenager has died following an electrical accident that occurred while he was trimming a tree, authorities said.

The 17-year-old was apparently injured by current carried by a branch that came into contact with a 19,000 volt electrical distribution line, said Tim Butters, an assistant chief for the Fairfax City fire department.

The incident occurred about 6:15 p.m. Tuesday in the 4200 block of Berritt Street.

The teenager was taken to a hospital with injuries that included a severe electrical burn, Butters said. He later died from his injuries.

The City of Fairfax, the Fairfax City Fire Marshall and Dominion Power are conducting a joint investigation into the incident, said Fairfax City fire department Capt. Greg Rauch.

Fairfax teen injured by electrical current
10:10 p.m.

A Northern Virginia teenager was critically injured Tuesday evening in an electrical accident that occurred while he was trimming a tree, authorities said.

The 17-year-old was apparently injured by current carried by a branch that came into contact with a 19,000 volt electrical distribution line, said Tim Butters, an assistant chief for the Fairfax City fire department.

The incident occurred about 6:15 p.m. in the 4200 block of Berritt Street.

The teenager was taken to a hospital with injuries that included a severe electrical burn, Butters said.

-- Martin Weil