Alabama lineman killed in electrical accident in Detroit remembered for dedication to family, others in need
Published 5:54 am Tuesday, June 27, 2023
An Alabama lineman who was killed while trying to restore power in Detroit is being remembered as a man who was dedicated to his family and to helping others.
Austin Chappell, 30, was killed Saturday when he came into contact with live equipment while working as a contractor for DTE Energy in Detroit.
Chappell’s father, Jeff Chappell, told CBS Detroit that his son was a “good man” and an “even better father and husband.”
Jeff Chappell said his son was doing what he loved, which was helping people. Jeff Chappell said his son, an Alabama native, was a hard worker and 600 to 700 miles from home when he was killed.
Austin Chappell leaves behind a wife, a 10-year-old daughter.
Chappell was killed in an incident that occurred in the area of West Outer Drive and Annabelle Street in Detroit.
Austin Chappell was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.
Jeff Chappell said he hopes people remember the dedication in the face of danger that linemen, like his son, face daily.
“I say the next time the power is out, think about these guys. If they are working on these lines, they are out there working on these lines without letting people in. They’re doing a very dangerous job,” he said. “They’re not doing it for the money. They’re doing it to help people.”