Sioeli Vakataumai Havea (27) of Fasi died on Monday, February 4 after it is believed he was electrocuted by a low power line that he touched while walking on Laifone Road, beside the Royal Tombs in central Nuku'alofa.

Police Commissioner Grant O'Fee said today, the power line from the pole was low enough for the victim who was of average height to touch. "It appeared that he was pushing it out of the way to walk under, but we are still investigating the incident," he said.

The death occured at 3:00pm yesterday when the victim and two friends were walking along Laifone Road towards Nuku'alofa CBD, after fishing at Kolomotu'a.

"The victim was walking on the grass footpath on the roadside next to the Royal Tombs fence and his two friends were walking on the tarsealed part, slightly in front of him. The victim carried a bucket containing their catch and he touched the power lines, and appeared to get an electric shock," he said.

Police officers who attended the scene tried to resuscitate him, before he was rushed to Vaiola Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Investigation

Commissioner O'Fee said the power authority had been very cooperative and was working with the police to ascertain exactly what happened, which included the state of the power lines before the incident.

In the meantime, the power poles had been replaced at the area to prevent any more casualties.

The cause of death awaits medical and pathologist's reports. 

The Commissioner adviced the public that all power lines should be treated as live and to stay away from them.