Man Dies After Climbing Transformer Causing Explosion, Power Outage in Fullerton

A man died after climbing onto a transformer and catching fire, causing an explosion and subsequent power outage in Fullerton, police said on Sunday.

Residents reported hearing a loud boom in the 1800 block of Commonwealth Avenue near Brookhurst Drive around 3 p.m. Saturday.

When crews arrived, they saw wires were down and a small brush fire had broken out.

The man shocked himself when he climbed onto the wiring, which also sparked the power outage. He was transported to the hospital in critical condition following the explosion.

Officials advised residents to avoid the area for at least two hours.

About 630 customers were without power in the area of Brookhurst Road and Valencia Drive due to the explosion.

The outages were restored around 5:30 p.m., according to SoCal Edison’s site. An NBC4 photographer also reported that businesses in the outage area had power.

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Police were also investigating the blast.

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