SISSONVILLE, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Authorities are investigating a case of criminal vandalism after a power outage on Derricks Creek Road left residents in the dark and caused an estimated $3,000 in damages.
According to the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the area following reports of a disruption to electrical service.
Appalachian Power (AEP) workers discovered that a transformer had been severely damaged, leaning off its pole and impacting one of three distribution lines.
Investigators found burglary tools at the scene and evidence that a suspect had scaled the pole in an attempt to remove the transformer by unbolting it.
However, one securing bolt remained in place, and when workers followed the attached lines, they found 632 feet of wire dangling from a nearby pole.
Authorities believe the suspect’s actions caused the lines to touch, generating sparks that burned and split the wires.
This incident is part of a concerning trend of transformer thefts across the region. Similar crimes have been reported in Jackson County, raising fears that such activity is spreading into Kanawha County.
The valuable internal components of these transformers make them a target for thieves.
In response, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office is working closely with AEP to enhance security at frequently targeted power sites.
Deputies and detectives are conducting multi-jurisdictional investigations to hold those responsible accountable.
Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity near power lines or substations.
Anyone with information about the Derricks Creek Road incident is asked to contact Deputy W.E. Ingram at 304-357-0169.
