Crane strikes power pole in Colorado Springs, stranding operator

Colorado Springs Fire Department crews rescued a crane operator on Sunday after an elevated boom hit a power pole, officials said.

The incident took place at about 8:45 a.m. near North 19th and Dale streets on the city's west side.

"The wind was blowing pretty hard — maybe 30 mph," said eyewitness Jake Paslay, who added that he was about five feet away when the incident occurred.

"I saw the crane fall into the power line, and sparks shot out about 10 feet in all directions. I was lucky."

CSFD crews successfully rescued the stranded construction worker and were evaluating him for possible injuries, officials said.

The incident caused a power outage that affected about 1,700 customers, according to Colorado Springs Utilities representative Eric Isaacson.

"Crews will need to remove the crane from the power line before we will be able to restore power," Isaacson said. "There were some traffic lights affected by the outage, so please use caution."

North 19th Street was closed at Glenn Street during the rescue operation. Motorists were advised to avoid the area.