Lineman Accused of Assaulting Coworker During Winter Storm Power Restoration

Harley Deline allegedly attacked his fellow lineman in a premeditated ambush, causing serious injuries that will require surgery.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A 36-year-old lineman named Harley Deline has been arrested and charged with aggravated assault after allegedly attacking his coworker during power restoration efforts following a fatal winter storm in Nashville, Tennessee. The victim, another lineman, suffered a torn pectoral muscle and torn shoulder that will require surgery, according to police. Authorities believe the attack was premeditated based on Deline's attire and witness accounts.

Why it matters

Utility workers like linemen play a critical role in restoring power after major storms, and this incident raises concerns about workplace safety and tensions among crews during high-stress emergency situations. The alleged attack also highlights the potential for violence to erupt even among coworkers in dangerous field conditions.

The details

According to the arrest affidavit, the incident occurred on January 30 as the two linemen were working to restore power outside a home. The victim said he told Deline several times not to activate a transformer before it was safe to do so, but Deline ignored the warnings. When the victim returned to the back of the house, he saw Deline closing the transformer and yelled at him to stop. An argument ensued, and Deline allegedly manipulated the victim's shoulder and kicked his feet out from under him in what police believe was a premeditated attack. The victim suffered serious injuries that will require surgery.

  • The incident occurred on January 30, 2026 during power restoration efforts following a winter storm.
  • The victim reported the assault to police on February 6, 2026.

The players

Harley Deline

A 36-year-old lineman who was arrested and charged with aggravated assault for allegedly attacking his coworker during power restoration operations.

The Victim

Another lineman who was working with Deline and suffered a torn pectoral muscle and torn shoulder that will require surgery after the alleged attack.

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What they’re saying

“The defendant was in full cold-weather gear prior to the assault and when he jumped the fence, the defendant was only in base layers as if this was premeditated given the temperatures were well below freezing.”

— Police Officer (WSMV/Gray News)

“Given that the [victim] will need surgery and will have permanent scars, officers believe this meets the statute for aggravated assault.”

— Police Officer (WSMV/Gray News)

What’s next

Deline is scheduled to appear in court on March 20, 2026, where a judge will determine if he should be released on bail.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the dangers utility workers like linemen face, not just from the elements, but also from potential violence and tensions within their own crews during high-stress emergency situations. It raises questions about workplace safety protocols and the need for better conflict resolution training for field crews.