The Scouting community is mourning the loss of four adult leaders of Boy Scout Troop 711 out of Anchorage, Alaska, after a tragic accident on the first day of the National Jamboree.
The leaders were helping to set up a large mess tent when a center pole touched overhead electrical lines. The four leaders died from the subsequent electrical current that ran down the pole and electrocuted them. It is not known if a spotter was outside the tent watching where the poles were going. As many as three other adults were also hurt in the accident.
Some thirty-five Scouts were in the immediate vicinity and witnessed the horrifying accident. Two of the leaders had sons at the Jamboree; all three boys have been sent home to Alaska to mourn and be with their families. The rest of Alaska contingent is receiving counseling near the scene.
Forty-two thousand Scouts and leaders from around the world are at Fort A.P. hill near Bowling Green, Virginia.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Scouts and leaders who are suffering from this disaster. May the Great Scoutmaster comfort the mourning, heal the injured and be with the participants of the Jamboree as it continues on.
Rest in Peace
Michael J. Shibe, 49
Mike Lacroix, 42
Ronald H. Bitzer, 58
Scott Edward Powell, 57
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