IE Teen Studying To Become Electrical Lineman Dies After Pole Fails
CALIFORNIA — A 19-year-old Inland Empire man who just graduated from high school in 2023 was killed this week in a training accident at a Northern California vocational college he was attending.
Carlos Mendoza died Monday after a pole he was working on fell at Northwest Lineman College, 2009 Challenger Avenue in Oroville. The college’s electrical lineworker program teaches students how to construct, operate and maintain the nation’s electric power grid, working with heavy equipment, power lines and bucket trucks, according to its website.
Mendoza why just one week shy of completing the program, according to a GoFundMe page established for his family.
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Oroville police officers and detectives determined Mendoza was “utilizing the pole for educational purposes” during regular teaching hours when “the pole failed,” causing him to fall with it, according to the Oroville Police Department.
First responders treated Mendoza but he died at the scene, police said.
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The Butte County Sheriff’s Office Chaplaincy program was called to provide counseling services to students and those who witnessed the incident.
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Northwest Lineman College President Mike Daniels was quoted in news reports: “On behalf of Northwest Lineman College, I want to express our sincere condolences to the family of our student who lost his life. We’re working closely with local law enforcement as they continue to investigate the incident.”
Mendoza graduated from Victor Valley High School in 2023, where he played baseball. He then attended Northwest Linemen School and was “filled with anticipation for his future in this career path,” according to the GoFundMe page.
Victor Valley High School Head Coach Juan Mejia told the Daily Press that Mendoza was a “jokester” who always smiled.
“He was a big part of our baseball program since his freshman year. You knew when he was around because (he was) cracking jokes, just messing around in a good, fun, loveable way,” the coach told the news outlet.
“His sudden loss has left everyone devastated,” the GoFundMe page continued. “Carlos shared a profound bond with his family, who took immense pride in his growth and achievements.”
Mendoza is survived by his parents, siblings, aunts and uncles, and friends.
The GoFundMe page for Mendoza’s family had raised more than $50,000 as of Thursday morning.
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