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Two men were hospitalized after making contact with a power line in Allentown on Wednesday (July 9). The incident occurred near North Twelfth Street when the men, working on a lift, accidentally struck the line. One of the men is in critical condition with significant burns, according to Allentown Fire Department public information officer Jon Hammil.
Emergency crews responded to the scene shortly after 11 a.m. and used a rope system to safely lower the men from the lift. Both individuals were transported to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest for treatment. The incident caused a power outage affecting approximately 733 residents in the surrounding area, with power restored by 7:30 p.m.
PPL Electric Utilities confirmed that the individuals involved were not affiliated with the company. The power line was deenergized, and PPL crews assisted emergency responders. The outage disrupted traffic signals and local infrastructure, prompting authorities to urge residents to avoid the area while the situation was managed.
The incident remains under investigation, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.