We Energies workers save truck driver from potential death

WEST ALLIS (WITI) -- A potentially deadly situation was averted during an accident in West Allis Friday morning, June 28th, thanks to the actions of two men.

Shortly before 7 a.m. a semi truck crashed into and tore down power lines near I-94 just off Highway 100. Fortunately, the first two people on the scene were WE Energies employees on their way to work.

John Feider and Erich Wuestenhagen jumped from their cars and into action before the scene was even contained.

"The potential was just so great for some, for there to be some kind of injury," said Feider. "It's extremely dangerous any time you've got power lines."

Live wires had fallen onto the semi creating an electrical current. If the driver had gotten out, he could have been killed.

"In that situation, where there's down lines, you're most safe staying where you are," said Wuestenhagen.

The men blocked traffic with sandbags, diverted pedestrians away from the scene, and made sure the driver was safe.

"Instructed him to stay in his vehicle, check in with him once in a while," said Feider.

Within hours the lines and poles were replaced and the road was back open.

"The ultimate goal is, at the end of the day, that everyone can go home to their families," added Wuestenhagen.

Fortunately, no one was hurt during the incident. The driver of the semi was cited for inattentive driving and operating an over-length vehicle without a permit.