Man Dies in Electrocution While Hanging Christmas Lights

Antonio Pascual Mateo, a 24-year-old man from Escondido, California, died from electrocution while installing Christmas lights on November 21. The incident occurred when he threw lights over a nearby high-voltage power line, leading to his electrocution. Emergency responders found him hanging upside down from a tree and attempted life-saving measures, but he was pronounced dead at Palomar Medical Center shortly thereafter. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist with funeral expenses and transportation of his body back to Guatemala, raising nearly $10,000. The campaign organizer, Jual Pascal, described Mateo as a devoted family member with much to live for, emphasizing the deep personal loss felt by his family and friends. This tragic accident highlights the dangers associated with working near power lines during holiday preparations.