Municipal authority laborer sues power companies after cutting into unmarked power line

A Municipal Authority of Westmoreland County laborer in a lawsuit filed against West Penn Power and First Energy claims he was injured when he cut an unmarked electrical line during water line repairs last year in Delmont.

Michael Obney, 39, of Hempfield contends he sustained electrical burns on his hands and face, abrasions, spinal injuries and a serious concussion that resulted in ongoing memory loss and headaches as a result of the Feb. 28, 2019, incident near Applehill Drive.

“It was a line that was unmarked and, when he cut into it with his knife, he got a pretty good jolt,” said Obney’s attorney Jeff Monzo.

Obney has since returned to work at the municipal authority but still continues to deal with his injuries, Monzo said.

West Penn spokesman Todd Meyers declined to comment.

Obney contends the power companies were negligent by not properly marking electrical lines and failed to identify the live power line in a mapping system that would have enabled other utility workers to assess a potential risk.

The lawsuit also contends West Penn Power and First Energy did not properly inspect electric lines or correct any conditions that resulted in a safety concern.

Obney is seeking an unspecific amount in damages for his pain and suffering, lost wages, medical expenses and mental anguish and embarrassment.