Video: Military Cutoff reopens after Friday’s crane accident

5 July, 2018

Wilmington Police are asking motorists to avoid the area of Military Cutoff Road and Parker Farm Drive after a crane leaving the Mayfaire development struck power lines and pulled them down.

A 911 call came in at 9:20 a.m. Friday morning, WPD Spokeswoman Jennifer Dandron said.

“Crews are responding to a wreck involving a crane that knocked down at least one utility pole. Avoid the area,” Dandron said.

The operator of the crane was removed without injury. Duke Energy also respond to the scene, she said.

Duke Energy has to replace three power poles and WPD will be blocking entrances to Military Cutoff from Chick-fil-a, Market Street, and Parker Farm Road and expects road closures for 12 hours, Dandron said.

According to Dandron the crane operator hit one power pole with the boom of the crane, which in turn brought down two more poles with it. In a video now circulating online, the crane truck can be seen striking power lines as it exits Mayfaire and again as it turns onto Military Cutoff Road.

Businesses in Mayfaire had their power restored before 11 a.m., however, most of the Forum, across the road, are still without power.

Update 7:00 p.m. — Military Cutoff Road has reopened and repairs to the power lines have been made, according to the Wilmington Police Department.

Police advise drivers continue to use caution in the area.

SOURCE: Port City Daily