HARLAN COUNTY, Ky. — A tragic workplace accident claimed the life of a 19-year-old man Tuesday morning in the Holmes Mill community. Authorities identified the victim as Bryson Kane Cottongim of Manchester, who was killed while working along Highway 38. The devastating incident has left his family, friends, and coworkers grieving the loss of a young life taken far too soon.
Officials said Cottongim was employed by Apex Contracting and was assisting with the installation of fiber optic lines in the area. According to reports, he was operating from a bucket truck during the project. The work was part of ongoing efforts to improve communication infrastructure in the region.
Investigators believe Cottongim came into contact with an active power line while elevated in the bucket. The contact resulted in a fatal electrocution. Emergency responders were quickly dispatched to the scene, but crews were unable to immediately reach him due to the live electrical hazard. The scene quickly filled with emergency vehicles as officials worked urgently to make the area safe.
Kentucky Utilities was called to shut off power to the line, allowing first responders to safely access the bucket truck. Despite rapid response efforts, Cottongim was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed that the bucket truck involved in the accident belonged to Harlan Community Television, though Cottongim was not an employee of that organization.
Multiple agencies responded to the emergency, including the Harlan County Sheriff’s Department, Harlan County EMS, Cloverfork Fire Department, and the Kentucky State Police. Officials worked together to secure the scene, assist with recovery efforts, and begin investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to determine exactly how the contact with the power line occurred. Community members are mourning the sudden loss of a young man who was just beginning his career. Local outlet WTUK extended condolences to Cottongim’s loved ones, as many across Harlan County reflect on the risks faced by workers and the fragile nature of life.
