W.V. utility lineman dies from heat-related complications while working to restore power in Texas

A West Virginia utility lineman died this week after working with his crew in the Texas heat, authorities said.

The 35-year-old man was among other linemen with Appalachian Power who worked on Monday in the Marshall, Texas area to restore power after recent storms.

Harrison County Justice of the Peace John Oswalt said that the man complained to his coworkers that he “felt sick” once they finished working and returned to the motel.

Oswalt said that the lineman’s condition improved after he took a shower and received medical attention; he even joined colleagues downstairs to chatter.

But at around 8:30 p.m., the unidentified lineman was found unresponsive in his room. He was pronounced dead shortly later.

Authorities said that the lineman’s sudden death was heat-related. An autopsy to confirm the cause of death is pending.