SUV hits hydrant, light pole, two electrocuted

Geyser from fire hydrant sheared by SUV that hit it streams high into air in Los Angeles Wednesday night / KCBS-TV

(CBS/AP) LOS ANGELES — Authorities say two women were killed and six people injured, all but one from electric shock, when an SUV knocked over a fire hydrant and a light pole in Los Angeles and live wires hit water.

The damage to the hydrant sent a geyser of water streaming high into the air.

Los Angeles fire spokesman Erik Scott said all the victims were shocked except the driver after the Wednesday night crash in the San Fernando Valley.

Police told CBS Los Angeles station KCBS-TV the women who lost their lives were Good Samaritans who tried to help the motorist.

Firefighters told the station the women were electrocuted trying to rescue the driver, who was trapped inside his car.

The other injured were apparently trying to help previous victims as the SUV sat on the front lawn of a home.

The six survivors had minor injuries. Five were taken to hospitals.

Firefighters worked to treat the injured and shut down the water and power with help from city workers.

[Sound55]

My heart grieves for the families of those who lost their lives while attempting to help a stranger. It was a noble act and should not be mocked. Their families should be proud that they were women willing to step up and help, rather than to be content as gawking spectators. They may or may not have been aware of the danger. Nevertheless, these were women of action and died bravely.

[kroguej]

Yup, to be admired its often dangerous to be a hero. People should really ***** an accident scene before they do anything.

[offerPop5119398]

I suppose that was a "shocking" experience.

Dohoho.

[rwsmith29456]

Not funny.

[myra876]

Really do you have something smarter to say one of this women was my aunt I have been reading all the stupid comments people make and stupid people like your self are quick to speak....It doesn't hit you until it hits home this 2 women are heroes it's rear to find people now a days that would put their life in the line for another person they should be respected for what they did and respect the families sorrow.....don't be such ignorant fools

[ralphing]

The wires had to be sparking and arcing all around the vehicle. Even without water all over the place, you'd had to have been totally clueless or insane to walk anywhere that area.

[myra876]

FYI they were not I don't think my aunt was that stupid to not know that you think that anyone would just jump in knowing that witness have been saying that there was no sign of wires sparking and arcing around that all they saw was water and once this people jump in to help it shocked them get your story straight before you make a comment

[pohd1]

Therefore if you see someone in trouble walk on. I hope people that believe that will put a sticker on their car so if they are in a accident people will walk by until emergency personal come in 10-20 minutes. My daughter knew one of the victims. Fortunately in hospital and not killed. A loving a caring person who is there to help anyone any time. Maybe he should become selfish uncaring person and just walk by people that need help.

[Colt4542]

As Dirty Harry said, "A man has to know his limitations". If you don't know about electricity, water, and general rescue, it is better to stay on the sidelines until someone arrives that does. No point in having the paramedics have to rescue multiple victims.

[askagain]

88Ronin - Actually the advice from legalbutnotjus is not as cold as it might sound. It is important to use caution before exposing oneself to risk which might be fatal. This article is an example of two resuers dying and others injued while trying to help the driver. Years ago, I worked with two teachers who rescued a man from a burning car just before it exploded. Although the outcome was good in this case, the the driver and both teachers could have been killed by the explosion.

[karek40]

No good deed goes unpunished?

[gbreadmann]

A similar thing happens with confined spaces (sewers, storage tanks, etc.) and good samaritans. Someone who doesn't test the confined space for toxins passes out while climbing down an access ladder and usually dies; the good samaritan runs in after him and dies, as well.