Three students at a top private school have been rushed to hospital after being electrocuted by a power cable. Ambulances, an air ambulance, a specialist hazard team, fire engine and police scrambled to Millfield School in Somerset on Saturday, May 3. Young athelete Chase Allen was rushed to hospital alongside two others after they came into contact with a high voltage cable at the school.
The “bright and athletic” 14-year-old is fighting for his life after he suffered from severe injuries “affecting his internal organs and with sevevre burns that he has had most of his toes amputated”. He currently remains in hospital where his loved ones say he may need to stay for at least two months. A GofundMe page has been set up on his behalf.
The fundraiser post reads: “Chase is a bright and energetic, with a passion for sports. Known for his determination and athletic skill, he has been an inspiration to his teammates and friends. He has always been positive, healthy and strong.
“However, on Saturday 3rd May, he suffered severe electrical burns in a life-altering incident when he came into contact with overhead power cables whilst playing at school.
“Chase is now in a critical condition. His injuries are extensive, affecting his internal organs and with such severe burns that he has had most of his toes amputated. His feet may have to be amputated and NHS surgeons are working tirelessly. They remain uncertain whether they will be able to save his feet as the burns have caused critical damage.
“We all pray that no more had to be amputated and we are enormously grateful for everything the NHS is doing. Careful fluid therapy is being used for his internal injuries.”
The fundraiser was set up to support Chase’s medical expenses, rehabilitation and the coming support he will need. Additionally, to help with travel and accommodation as his family live in New Zealand and South Africa, with “his mum and dad alone here in the UK until family are able to join them”.
Chase parents shared an updated. They said: “Chase has a recovery day today and is resting as much as he can to prepare for his 5th surgery tomorrow. We are incredibly grateful for the out pouring of love, support and prayers from the Millfield community and beyond.
“Our boy is a real warrior, a fighter and we are staying positive and praying that he can continue to get better with every hour that passes.”
The school’s headmaster, Gavin Horgan, wrote to the parents to inform them that a “serious incident occured”. In the letter seen by The Sun, he had said “contact with overhead electircal cables” had left the teenagers with “serious injuries”.
He added: “The boys have undergone surgery overnight and are currently in a stable condition. It will be some time before we understand the extent of their injuries and it will be a long road to recovery. All three students have their families or close family friends with them. We are in close contact with the families and they are very grateful for the care that has been afforded to their children.”
A Millfield spokesperson said: “There is no ongoing danger to others. The entire Millfield community’s thoughts and best wishes are with them all. We ask for everyone to respect their privacy and avoid speculation. We are working closely with the authorities to investigate how the accident occurred.”
A spokeperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: “We were called by the ambulance service at 7.50pm on Saturday 3 May to support them and the fire service in responding to an incident at Millfield School, near Street. Three people were taken to hospital with serious injuries. Their next of kin have been informed. Following the incident, a referral was made to the Health and Safety Executive who will lead in any investigation.”
A HSE spokeperson said: “HSE is aware of this incident and has been in contact with Avon and Somerset Police and the School to make initial enquiries.”