Oregon man’s death on utility pole ruled a suicide

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) - The Oregon State Medical Examiner says the death of a man electrocuted on power lines in southeast Portland was a suicide.

Witnesses said last week the man climbed a utility pole and pulled at wires while throwing items from his pocket. Officers arrived a few minutes later and saw the man being shocked as he dangled about halfway up the pole.

Police announced the medical examiner’s ruling on Monday. They said the 27-year-old man from West Linn had a documented history of mental illness.