HOUSTON – There are new developments in a tragic story we first told you about last year.
Back in February of 2013, a young brother and sister were badly burned after coming in contact with a CenterPoint Energy guy wire in their backyard. On Friday, a settlement has been reached between the family and CenterPoint.
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The family's life has been forever changed. It all started when a guy wire to a CenterPoint power pole became corroded and broke free in their backyard.
The dad called CenterPoint, but no one ever came to fix it. A short time later his two youngest children touched it and were badly burned. The little girl actually died on the scene, but her dad revived her.
The boy and girl were treated at Shriners Hospital in Galveston.
Although the specifics of the settlement are confidential, we do know that besides financial compensation for the victims, part of the settlement is that CenterPoint is having to inspect all 220,000 guy wire installations. That's expected to be completed by summer of 2014.
"We are sorry the family had to experience this traumatic event. CenterPoint Energy would like to thank the family and its counsel, The Buzbee Law Firm, for their cooperation in resolving the litigation arising from this very unfortunate accident," said Tracy Bridge, Division President of CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric. "While these types of incidents are extremely rare, CenterPoint Energy takes them seriously and is committed to identifying and remedying potential safety issues related to guy wires."
CenterPoint also launched a TV campaign last month to raise awareness about electric safety hazards.