A tragic on-set accident in the New Orleans area has brought renewed attention to the dangers of Louisiana electrocution accidents and the serious risks posed by overhead power lines on worksites. Recent news reports confirm that a veteran film crew member died after coming into contact with a live power line during production—an incident that underscores the importance of electrical safety planning across all industries.
What Happened on the New Orleans Film Set
According to People and local news outlets, on Monday, Nov. 3, 64-year-old James “Trapper” McEvoy, a longtime member of the New Orleans film community, was tragically electrocuted while working on the set of the horror movie Kill Me Now. Authorities told news outlets that McEvoy was operating from a truck on set when he came into contact with an energized overhead power line. The incident occurred in the Bridge City area of Jefferson Parish.
A lead producer of the film, Lynn Gilman Williams, shared a statement expressing her heartbreak. “We are devastated by the tragic loss of James ‘Trapper’ McEvoy, a beloved member of the New Orleans film community. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and all who knew him and worked alongside him during this difficult time.”
McEvoy, a native of New Orleans, had an extensive career in film production, contributing to projects such as Pitch Perfect and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. He was also an active member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 478.
Why Electrical Accidents Are So Dangerous
Fatal electrical injuries often happen in seconds, and investigations must determine whether proper safety protocols, such as clearance from overhead lines, equipment positioning, and hazard markings, were in place.
Electrical hazards are among the most lethal workplace risks, especially when workers are near high-voltage lines. The human body conducts electricity and even brief contact can cause life-altering or fatal injuries.
Common injuries from electrical shock or contact with power lines include:
- Severe thermal and electrical burns
- Heart arrhythmia or cardiac arrest
- Respiratory paralysis
- Internal organ damage
- Nerve injury and neuropathy
- Traumatic brain injury
- Amputations
- Permanent disability or death
Many of these injuries are internal and may not be immediately visible, but electrical injuries can have devastating effects. Victims often require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and significant support.
Who May Be Liable in a Louisiana Electrocution Accident
Many electrical injury cases result from preventable errors, unsafe conditions, or failures to follow required safety standards. In Louisiana, several parties may be responsible when negligence plays a role.
Utility Companies
Electrical utilities have a duty to maintain safe line height, clearance, insulation, and proper markings. Failure to follow the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) can lead to tragic outcomes.
Employers and Production Companies
Employers must provide workers with a safe environment, especially when operating trucks, lifts, equipment, or elevated platforms near energized lines. Failure to train employees or conduct hazard assessments can create liability.
Contractors and Equipment Operators
When trucks, booms, cranes, or lifts come too close to overhead lines, operator negligence could contribute to an electrocution accident.
Property Owners or Site Managers
Landowners may share responsibility if hazardous electrical conditions exist on the property or if dangerous lines are unmarked or difficult to see.
Product or Equipment Manufacturers
In some cases, defective equipment or improper protective devices may contribute to a fatal electrical incident.
Why This Incident Matters for New Orleans Workers
This fatality is a reminder that electrical hazards impact workers across every industry, from construction and utilities to entertainment and film production. As Louisiana’s film industry expands, so does the need for strict compliance with electrical safety standards, thorough site assessments, and clear communication regarding powerline risks.
Accidents involving energized equipment or high-voltage lines require immediate investigation, including:
- Photos of the scene
- Clearance and line-height measurements
- Utility maintenance records
- Witness statements
- Equipment positioning and operation reports
Preserving evidence early is essential for holding responsible parties accountable.
Victims of electrical injuries in Louisiana and families of those killed in preventable electrocution accidents deserve answers. These cases demand fast action, expert analysis, and a deep understanding of state and federal electrical safety laws.
Herman, Katz, Gisleson & Cain represents victims of electrical accidents throughout Louisiana and has handled cases involving power line contact, utility negligence, unsafe worksites, and fatal electrocutions. Our firm works to determine what went wrong, identify every responsible party, and pursue full compensation for victims and their families. For more information or a free case consultation, contact us online, use our live chat, or call (844) 943-7626.
