Electrician Mike Papagno Awakens from Coma After Horrific Power Line Accident

The harrowing story of Mike Papagno, a 33-year-old electrician from New Hampshire, has taken a hopeful turn. After nearly three weeks in a medically-induced coma, Papagno has awakened, bringing a glimmer of hope to his family and community. Papagno suffered severe burns covering 50% of his body after accidentally contacting a live power line during a complex equipment transport on November 12th.

A “Supermove” Gone Wrong: The Details of the Accident

Papagno, a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 103, was part of a team undertaking a “supermove,” the transportation of an enormous cold storage unit measuring 18 feet tall and 136 feet long. The journey, from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, to Brookline, Massachusetts, required meticulous planning and a police escort due to the sheer size of the load.

Tragedy struck in Greenland, New Hampshire, as Papagno prepared for the move. While adjusting wires to accommodate the massive cold storage box, he inadvertently touched a live power line, receiving a catastrophic electric shock. New Hampshire State Police confirmed the incident, stating that troopers assisted medical personnel at the scene after Papagno was electrocuted. The accident underscores the inherent dangers faced by linemen and electrical workers who routinely work in close proximity to high-voltage power lines.

The Road to Recovery: Burns, Surgeries, and an Unwavering Spirit

Immediately following the accident, Papagno was airlifted to Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, a leading burn center. He sustained third-degree burns across a vast portion of his upper body, from his nose to his waist. According to his brother, Matt Papagno, his hands were spared from the severe burns. Since the accident, Mike has undergone three skin graft surgeries, with more procedures planned as part of his long and arduous recovery process.

Despite the immense physical pain and emotional trauma, Papagno’s family reports that he has maintained a positive attitude since regaining consciousness. Matt Papagno shared that his brother’s inherent humor and vibrant personality shine through, even amidst the challenging circumstances. He’s reportedly joking with nurses, expressing his desire for Coca-Cola and Corona, and demonstrating a remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. While his recovery is expected to extend into January 2025, his awakening marks a significant milestone. He is anticipated to remain in intensive care for the foreseeable future.

Community Support and Ongoing Investigations

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In the wake of the accident, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to support Papagno’s family with mounting medical expenses and the ongoing care for his wife, Andrea, and their eight-month-old daughter. The outpouring of support has been overwhelming, with over $187,000 raised as of December 12th. The generosity of donors reflects the profound impact Papagno has had on his community and the collective desire to help him and his family through this difficult time.

The incident is currently under investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). They are conducting a thorough inspection to determine if any workplace safety violations contributed to the accident. Bay Crane Northeast, LLC, the company that held the permit for the “supermove,” declined to comment on the ongoing investigation.

The Importance of Workplace Safety in the Electrical Industry

Papagno’s accident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of workplace safety, particularly in high-risk industries like electrical work. Stringent safety protocols, comprehensive training, and ongoing vigilance are paramount to preventing such devastating accidents. OSHA’s investigation will play a crucial role in identifying any contributing factors and implementing necessary measures to prevent future tragedies.

Looking Ahead: A Long Road to Recovery and Continued Support

Mike Papagno’s journey to recovery will be long and challenging, requiring extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and unwavering support from his loved ones and community. The GoFundMe campaign continues to be a vital resource for the family, providing much-needed financial assistance during this uncertain time. As Papagno navigates the arduous road ahead, his story stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community in the face of adversity.