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Harlan Today
By the People, for the People
Teenager Electrocuted in Work Accident
Incident occurred in Holmes Mill community of Harlan County, Kentucky
Published on Mar. 4, 2026
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A 19-year-old man named Bryson K. Cottongim was electrocuted in a work accident on Tuesday morning while installing fiber cable from a bucket truck in the Holmes Mill community of Harlan County, Kentucky. He was pronounced dead at the scene by the Harlan County Deputy Coroner.
Why it matters
Workplace safety and the risks faced by young workers are important issues, especially in industries like telecommunications that involve working with high-voltage electrical equipment. This tragic incident highlights the need for robust safety protocols and training to protect employees.
The details
According to the Harlan County Sheriff's Office, the 'work accident' occurred around 10:20 AM on Tuesday in the Holmes Mill community, about 20 miles east of Harlan. Cottongim was working out of a bucket truck when he was electrocuted while installing fiber cable.
- The incident occurred at approximately 10:20 AM on Tuesday, March 4, 2026.
The players
Bryson K. Cottongim
A 19-year-old worker who was electrocuted in the accident.
Gene Fisher
The Harlan County Deputy Coroner who pronounced Cottongim deceased at the scene.
Harlan County Sheriff's Office
The law enforcement agency investigating the work accident.
What’s next
The investigation into the incident is ongoing by the Harlan County Sheriff's Office.
The takeaway
This tragic accident underscores the importance of rigorous workplace safety protocols, especially in high-risk industries, to protect young and vulnerable workers from harm.
