A man who was trying to steal copper wire died when he came in contact with a live wire Wednesday night, Charlotte-Mecklenburg police say.

They identify the victim as Thomas Justice Freeman III, 46.

Two men who police describe as accomplices were not injured.

Police say they were called to Carolinas Medical Center about 8:30 p.m., where they met with two men who told them Freeman died when he tried to cut a live wire with a pair of bolt cutters.

"Based on initial statements from the two remaining suspects, they met Mr. Freeman at his house around 5 or 6 p.m. and devised a plan where they could get copper wire and split the profits," said Officer Robert Fey, a spokesman for CMPD.

The three men drove their pickup truck to the 2500 block of Double Oaks Road, the men told police.

They told investigators Freeman used his 40-foot ladder and climbed about 30 feet off the ground, then began cutting.

Moments later, the men said, Freeman came in contact with the live wire and tumbled to the ground.

The men put Freeman in their truck and went to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. That's when hospital officials called police.

Fey said Freeman had burn marks on his body consistent with receiving an electric shock.

His clothing also showed signs of electric burns, Fey said.

Officers also found a white Chevrolet truck at the hospital with a trailer containing some copper wiring.

An investigation is continuing, and charges against the two remaining men are pending, he said.

Read more: http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2011/01/07/1961524/police-man-killed-while-trying.html#ixzz1ANB49Era

Link: http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2011/01/07/1961524/police-man-killed-while-trying.html

Submitted on 01/07/2011

Submitted by: Keren Rivas
Reference: Charlotte Observer (N.C.), Friday, Jan. 7, 2011

Copyright © 2011 DarwinAwards.com

James said:
Definitely Keep: For Darwin's Eyes
Thanks, Keren! Some extra info on this latest example of a common & stupid act...!

Bruce said:
Definitely Keep: For Darwin's Eyes
As James said.

The Darwin Awards Gift Shop

The Darwin Awards Condom Keep yourself out of the gene pool! A condom in a matchbook, useful for emergency contraception, bachelor parties, frat parties, and important rites of passage. LOADED inside and out with funny quotes and stories. Everyone loves this item! Friends don't let friends reproduce! $13 for Pack of 4