LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) – A North Little Rock Electric lineman was killed Wednesday morning while he was on the job.
Around 6 a.m. on Wednesday, Doug Thurmond was dispatched on a call for a streetlight wire in the road due to a vehicle accident. Emergency personnel were notified around 7 a.m., and his injuries were consistent with electrical shock. The internal investigation into the accident has begun.
A statement from the City of North Little Rock reads as follows:
North Little Rock Electric is deeply saddened by a tragic accident this morning resulting in the death of a great friend and 17-year employee. Doug Thurmond was a journeyman lineman with our department. The joy he brought to his colleagues and those he served will be sorely missed. Doug was 53-years-old and is survived by his wife, Lisa and his son, Michael.
A statement from Mayor Joe A. Smith reads as follows:
My heart is aching today for Lisa, Michael, and Doug’s whole family. Our linemen do a dangerous job and we too often take for granted the service they provide. Doug was the definition of a true public servant. He would work in uncomfortable conditions so we could keep our lights on and be warm and safe in our homes. We owe Lisa and Michael the prayers of our city, the gratitude of our community, and the knowledge that we are heartbroken for their loss.
A statement from James Bray, General Manager of NLR Electric reads as follows:
Doug was a friend to so many here at NLR Electric. He would go above and beyond and was often commended for his job performance. Doug’s skill as a journeyman lineman was exceptional and everyone in our service area has at one point or another benefitted from his outstanding work. Doug was a man of faith, he lived his faith, and our prayers are now joined with his entire faith community. Michael has lost a father and Lisa has lost her husband. We at North Little Rock Electric are devastated for their loss.
