CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA — A young man who moved from Ukraine to Charlotte is in critical condition after being shocked by electricity while hanging Christmas lights. Erik and his best friend, Filipp, were moving a metal ladder near overhead power lines when both were struck. Filipp, though burned himself, immediately began CPR, and a nearby doctor and bystander joined the fight to save Erik.
Friends Were Hanging Christmas Lights to Support Their Families
Erik moved from Ukraine to Charlotte hoping to build a better future. He and Filipp were hanging Christmas lights to earn money for their families. The two friends had been working together. It was meant to be a routine job.
Seasonal light installation is a common side job as the holidays approach. Workers often use ladders to reach rooflines and trees. Their last names and the exact address were not included in the post. The date of the incident was also not stated.
Metal Ladder Touches Power Lines Carrying an Estimated 13,000 Volts
As the two men moved a metal ladder near overhead power lines, both were struck by electricity. The voltage was reportedly estimated at around 13,000 volts. Images from the scene show a tall ladder near utility lines beside a home.
Erik collapsed, unconscious and unresponsive, and his heart had stopped. Filipp suffered burns to his own hands. Electrical shocks this strong can cause severe internal damage and cardiac arrest. The situation became life-threatening in seconds.
Filipp, Doctor, and Bystander Perform CPR to Save Erik
Despite his injuries, Filipp did not hesitate and immediately began CPR on his best friend. He focused on keeping his friend alive. A nearby doctor heard what happened and rushed over to help…