Second Fatal Electrocution in Palo Seco Amid Rising Copper Thefts

A second fatal incident in Palo Seco in just days has raised alarm as copper theft turns deadly again. The latest victim, a 27-year-old man, was found electrocuted near a utility pole on Los Charros Road on Friday, May 1st, 2026. The deceased has been identified as Zion Boland of Wharton Trace, Palo Seco.

Boland was discovered lying motionless in a grassy area near Oil Well #36, with visible burn marks on his hands. Investigators are led to believe that the electrocution occurred during his alleged attempt to steal copper wiring.

Adding to the evidence, police reports indicate that a rope was found attached to a 66,000-volt overhead electrical line on a nearby utility pole. This suggests that an attempted theft of electrical materials took place at the time of the incident.

Emergency Health Services personnel responded to the scene but could only confirm the tragic outcome. Boland, who relatives say was a father of one, showed no signs of life. Police continue their investigation into these unfortunate occurrences as the community grapples with the deadly consequences of copper theft.