CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte-Mecklenburg detectives responded to a person climbing a electrical tower in southwest Charlotte Sunday afternoon.
Officers were dispatched around 2 p.m. to Nations Crossing Road, near East Woodlawn Road, regarding to a person climbing an large high-tension electrical tower. At the scene, they attempted to talk with a man who was approximately 70 feet up the tower.
While officers were communicating, the person climbed another 15-20 feet to the top of tower.
During the incident, authorities contacted Duke Energy and crews were quickly shut off power to the area. This caused some limited power outages for businesses and residents in the area but Duke Energy was able to re-route power through other stations to return service.
SWAT negotiators were able to communicate with the man using a Long Range Acoustic Device. After around four hours of communication, the man climbed down from the tower safely and without injury.
Police said the person has not yet been identified due to his mental and physical condition. He was transported to Atrium Main to receive proper treatment.
During this response, officers noticed a drone flying in close proximity to the man and high-voltage lines on the electrical tower. Officers were able to locate the person operating the drone. This person is under investigation for interfering with police and life-saving rescue operations, police said.
CMPD reminds all drone operators to learn and adhere to FAA drone regulations, licensing and guidelines prohibiting operation of drones near Charlotte-Douglas airport, restricted utilities and public safety operations. The public is also reminded that utility towers and power poles operated by Duke Energy are private property. Persons are not to climb on or around this equipment due to the danger of electrocution. Β
The investigation into this case is active and ongoing.
Anyone with information about this case is asked to provide that information by calling 911. The public can also leave information anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or http://charlottecrimestoppers.com/.
