Utility Pole Explosion Leaves McLean Woman Shocked, in Pain

McLean resident Kathy Byman is lucky to be alive after she was shocked on a Sunday morning walk when an explosion erupted on a nearby utility pole. Local CBS affiliate WUSA was the first to report this story.

Byman tried to flee from a burning utility pole she noticed on her walk, but according to reports only made it about 20 feet away before the explosion occurred, causing her to fall into the middle of the intersection at Eastman Road and Idylwood Road.

A paramedic on the scene explained to WUSA that Byman had received a shock that was similar to being Tasered. The electricity reportedly traveled up one of her legs, across her hips and back down the other leg, causing her legs to lock. The electricity sought the path of least resistance as it passed through her body, which is critical — had she been standing on one foot, electricity might have traveled through her vital organs toward her head, which could have been fatal.

Byman was reportedly released from the ER after a few hours, though she told WUSA she still feels pain in her hips and legs. Doctors reportedly told her she would be back to normal in five days.

To read Byman’s full story, check it out on WUSA.com.