Thursday

21-August-2025

One Dead, Two Injured in Seminole Electrocution During Utility Pole Installation: PCSO

Seminole, FL – On August 12, 2025, at approximately 1:53 p.m., Pinellas County Sheriff’s deputies responded to 8675 Park Boulevard following reports of a man electrocuted. Upon arrival, deputies found three men injured by electrocution and a nearby grassy area on fire.

The men, employees of Primoris, a subcontractor for Duke Energy, were installing a new utility pole. The crew included Justin St Clair Bryan, 30, Jefferey Busch, 27, and Matthew Waldrop, 31, who were assisting on the ground. During the operation, the boom operator attempted to secure the pole with a claw, which struck the pole, causing it to contact a power line. A witness reported an explosion, and the surrounding grass caught fire.

Justin Bryan was pronounced deceased at the scene. Jefferey Busch and Matthew Waldrop sustained severe burns and were transported to a hospital. Next of kin were notified.

The incident appears accidental, with no suspicious circumstances reported. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was notified, and the investigation is ongoing.

Editor