3 injured when worker strikes power line while drilling in Northeast Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Three people were injured when a 46-year-old worker was drilling underground and hit a power line in Northeast Philadelphia, police said.

The man, who works for CGC Geoservices, was digging in the 3200 block of Ryan Avenue at about 9:04 a.m., to install a storm drain when he hit the power line and was shocked. The shock sent manholes flying out of the ground.

"The manholes popped up and the fire was coming up off the truck, and they said that the truck was electrified," said Ashley Fillman, who witnessed the incident.

The worker was taken to Aria-Torresdale Hospital where he was listed in critical condition. Authorities said he will be transferred to Jefferson University Hospital.

Two other employees, a 20-year-old and a 23-year-old, were also injured and were taken to Jefferson-Torresdale Hospital with minor injuries. Both were listed in stable condition.

Lincoln High School and Austin Meehan Middle School were placed on lockdown for a brief time as a result of the incident, police said.

Power was out in the area of Torresdale Avenue from Cottman Avenue to Rhawn Street.