A TEENAGER is seriously ill in hospital today after he received an electric shock from an 11,000 volt copper cable he was trying to steal.
The 18-year-old from Darlington was found on fire in disused premises in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, as a group of youths tried to remove the cabling.
He suffered extensive burns to his arms and head which were initially described as life-threatening.
He was taken to the University Hospital of Durham and later transferred to the RVI in Newcastle where he is now said to be seriously ill but stable.
The incident happened about 2pm on Saturday, June 5, at Durham Structures, Hilton Road, Newton Aycliffe.
A second man, 19, also from Darlington, was arrested, interviewed by officers and released on bail pending further inquiries, Det Insp Simon Orton, leading the investigation, said: "This young man could have died. He will have to live with the consequences of his criminal action for the rest of his life.
"People who go out to steal copper cabling carrying electricity are putting their lives at risk."
Anyone with information can contact Durham Police on 0345-6060365 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.
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