New Hampshire Dog Electrocuted in Puddle Tragedy Sparks Council Plea
In a heartbreaking incident that has shocked a local community, a New Hampshire woman witnessed her beloved dog die after stepping into what appeared to be a harmless puddle. Deborah Van Patten addressed the Portsmouth City Council on Monday, detailing the tragic death of her chocolate Labrador, Frank, on February 28.
Fire Department Report Reveals Shocking Details
Van Patten read aloud from a fire department report during the council meeting, which stated: 'We dispatched for a laceration and electrocution of a woman and a dog. Upon arrival, we found a woman with a hand injury and a dog on the ground, apparently dead.' The report confirmed that they were unknowingly exposed to 68 volts from the ground. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), all voltages of 50 volts or above are considered dangerous.
'How would you feel if you were walking your dog and saw it electrocuted in front of you?' Van Patten asked the council members, her voice filled with emotion. She described Frank as her lifeline, with plans to grow old together, now shattered by this preventable tragedy.
Lack of Communication and Calls for Decency
Van Patten expressed deep frustration over the lack of communication from city officials following the incident. 'This happened on February 28, and I didn't hear from a single person,' she said, urging the council to show 'decency' by reaching out. She suspected some council members were already aware of the event behind Portsmouth High School but had failed to act.
She made two specific requests: a donation to the SPCA in Frank's honor and for someone from the city to speak with her about the tragedy. 'I'm hoping we can put common decency above what it thinks could be brewing, which is who's liable and some legal action taken,' she added, emphasizing her desire for humanity over legalities.
Official Responses and Apologies
Chief William McQuillen of the Portsmouth Fire Department spoke at the meeting, noting that officials ensured no electrical current remained before leaving and called it an isolated event. However, supporters and friends, including Caroline Turk—who was walking with Van Patten and whose own dog was also electrocuted—pleaded for action, highlighting the lack of contact in their small town.
Mayor Deaglan McEachern set aside formalities to address Van Patten directly, apologizing on behalf of the city. 'I want to say on behalf of the city how truly sorry I am for your loss, how we are all incredibly sad for this, and words don't do that justice,' he said, holding a picture of Frank. Deputy City Attorney Trevor McCourt also conveyed regret for the poor communication, calling it a mistake.
Community Action and Memorial
In a follow-up gesture, Mayor McEachern announced on Facebook on Tuesday that he had made a personal donation to the New Hampshire SPCA on Frank's behalf and encouraged others to do the same. Van Patten, with tears streaming down her face, reiterated her hope that the city would do the right thing, despite legal concerns.
This tragic event underscores broader issues of public safety and municipal responsiveness, leaving a community grappling with loss and calling for accountability to prevent future incidents.
