A utility pole snapped and brought down live wires and a transformer onto several vehicles at Paris Caterers on Cross Keys Road on Sept. 27.
No injuries were reported, according to Berlin Borough police. Officers were dispatched to the scene at approximately 7:03 p.m., after a report that a transformer had fallen on multiple cars, was leaking fluids, and still had live wires attached.
First responders discovered that a utility pole on the property had broken roughly mid-way through, causing live wires and the transformer to fall. The incident left approximately 11 unoccupied vehicles damaged, none of which could be moved until Atlantic City Electric ensured the area was safe. Officers assisted with traffic and pedestrian control to keep the area secure.
Although Paris Caterers temporarily lost power, no guests at the catering hall were injured; trapped; or prevented from leaving, police said. Some of those whose cars were involved in the incident had to find other transportation.
Atlantic City Electric later arrived to clear and stabilize the wires and transformer. The cause of the pole’s collapse remains unknown, but police confirmed there was no contact made with it by a vehicle or person.
