A quiet evening walk in Sydney turned into a nightmare for a local woman who witnessed her beloved pet dog die after being electrocuted on a public street.
A Fatal Step on Crown Street
The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday evening on Crown Street in the inner-city suburb of Surry Hills. The owner was walking her two dogs when one of the animals stepped onto a manhole cover that had become electrified.
The dog was killed instantly after making contact with an exposed wire connected to a link box beneath the footpath. The woman also received an electric shock and was subsequently taken to hospital for treatment, though she was released soon after.
Heartbreaking Scene and Witness Account
The scene was described as deeply distressing. The woman's other dog was reportedly howling and refused to leave its companion's side. A witness who spoke to 9News captured the shock of the event, stating, 'It was terrible. You're walking along with a dog, and all of a sudden, it gets electrocuted and dies. So heartbreaking.'
Other pedestrians using the same footpath were fortunate to avoid injury, with their rubber-soled shoes likely insulating them from the live current.
Investigation and Apology from Authorities
Utility provider Ausgrid confirmed the event was an isolated incident. A spokesperson extended the company's 'sincere apology and condolences' to the dog's owner for the unfortunate event.
The City of Sydney Council has launched an investigation, noting that the footpath in question had only recently undergone restoration works. The Daily Mail has contacted the council for further comment on the safety failure.
