A power outage affecting more than 3,600 Kenergy customers in Hancock County was caused by a helicopter knocking down a Big Rivers Electric Corporation transmission line, according to an update from Kenergy.
The utility provider reported the incident occurred earlier today, prompting crews to isolate the outage. As of 11:15 a.m., approximately 506 members remained without power while Kenergy and Big Rivers worked to repair the damaged line.
Daviess County Sheriff Brad Youngman said his office was aware of the incident, which occurred today in the Knottsville area and involved a privately-owned helicopter engaged in agricultural operations that went down after striking a utility line.
“The incident only involved one person in the helicopter and no one on the ground. That person was taken by private automobile to OHRH for medical treatment and is responsive,” Youngman said. “At this time, we have not been asked to investigate the crash and have not received a 911 call about it.”
He added that because the incident occurred on private property and the only participant is at the hospital, his office will wait until he is able to contact them should he need them to become involved.
“At that time, we will be glad to do so.” Youngman said. “In the meantime we pray for his safety and recovery.”
“We are aware of a service disruption for 3,600 Hancock County members,” the update read. “We will update you when we have more information.”
Customers are encouraged to report outages by calling 800-844-4832 or by visiting the Kenergy outage map at www.kenergycorp.com/outage-center.
