LOS ANGELES – Phillip J. Wickey, 54, a Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) line patrol mechanic with 20 years of service, lost his life Sept. 9 following an Aug. 20th accident which also involved two other power system crew members.
Wickey and his two colleagues were critically injured by an electrical flash which occurred while installing new power equipment to serve a commercial customer located in the eastern area of the City.
“Every day LADWP crews face tremendous danger in the work they do serving the power and water needs for the 1.4 million customers we serve. This death serves as a tragic reminder of those dangers and the many unsung heroes who are on our frontlines each and every day, no matter the weather or the risk. Our condolence and heartfelt wishes go out to Philip’s family during this difficult time,” said Henry Martinez, chief operating officer – Power System and acting general manager.
Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa ordered City flags lowered to half-staff to honor Wickey and his service to the people of Los Angeles.
Wickey joined the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power staff on Aug. 31, 1987 as an electrical craft helper. He entered the Electric Distribution Mechanic Training Program in April 1989. He completed the training program and was promoted to electric distribution mechanic in 1993. He was promoted to his final position, line patrol mechanic, in 1995.
He leaves his wife Liz, stepson Scott and daughter-in-law Brooke. LADWP LINE PATROL MECHANIC LOSES LIFE
