Officials: Two Die When Boom Lift Blows Over Onto Powerlines In Bethany Beach

Bethany Beach- Delaware State Police are investigating an accident that claimed two individuals’ lives this morning, according to Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Heather Pepper.

Pepper said on November 2, 2020, at approximately 10:31 a.m., Delaware State Police responded to a reported industrial accident. The investigation determined a 22-year-old male of Puerto Rico and a 23-year-old male of Puerto Rico were working in a Z135 Man Lift to install new antennas for Velex company on the water tower of Sussex Shores Water Company located at 39602 Waterworks Court, Bethany Beach. The individuals were approximately 120 feet off the ground when a strong wind caused the lift to tip over and become tangled in the surrounding electrical wires as it fell to the ground.

Both individuals were pronounced deceased on the scene. Identification is pending notification to the next of kin.

One lane of southbound Coastal Highway remained closed for approximately 4 hours as the investigation was conducted.

This accident remains an active and ongoing investigation. Anyone with information should contact Detective P. Hailey with Delaware State Police Troop 4 Criminal Investigative Unit by calling 302-752-3810 or emailing [email protected].