Powerline worker receives shock

Daily American Republic

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. -- A Midwestern Powerline Inc. worker is in critical condition in a St. Louis burn unit after he was electrocuted Friday morning.

Chris Bristen, 25, of Poplar Bluff was one of a crew working on the power lines along U.S. 60 near Fluechville, said Eddie Ikenberry, Midwestern's area superintendent.

The first 24 hours, Ikenberry said, are the "most critical. He's made it that far. The doctors say it looks good."

Butler County sheriff's deputy Kellis Thompson said he was told Bristen never lost consciousness and was coherent at the scene.