A teenager is in a critical condition, after climbing a power pylon in Sockburn, Christchurch, last night.

Police said they were called to Ashtead Lane around 7:40 pm following reports of the incident.

Emergency services quickly responded, with a significant police presence surrounding the scene.

A St John spokesperson told chrislynchmedia.com they received the initial call from a member of the public and dispatched one ambulance, a rapid response unit, and a manager to the scene.

A witness said the boy was shocked multiple times during the incident.

 

St John staff assessed and treated the teenager, who was transported to Christchurch Hospital in critical condition, the spokesperson said.

A neighbour told chrislynchmedia.com the teenager said he and his friends had climbed pylons before, but this time he had climbed over barbed wire.

“His pants were burnt off his body and on the ground below him,” the neighbour said.

A witness at the scene said the teenager, who had recently turned 16, appeared to have sustained serious burns.

“He was still alive but mumbling,” the witness said.

The teenager was eventually helped to safety by Fire and Emergency staff at 9:40 pm.