DeWitt County, IL: Samuel Ward Electrocuted During Maintenance Work at Clinton Power Plant
DeWitt County, Illinois — The community of Decatur and surrounding areas are grappling with a profound sense of loss after a tragic workplace accident claimed the life of Samuel “Sam” Ward, a 29-year-old plant technician at Constellation Energy’s Clinton Power Plant. Authorities confirmed that Ward suffered fatal injuries Friday afternoon while performing scheduled maintenance work at the facility, sending shockwaves through colleagues, friends, and family alike.
According to reports from Constellation Energy and local law enforcement, Ward was engaged in routine maintenance when an electrical incident occurred. Emergency services were immediately contacted, and first responders arrived swiftly on-site to provide assistance. Despite rapid medical intervention and efforts to stabilize Ward, he was pronounced deceased at the scene. Officials say the nature of the incident involved high-voltage equipment, and a full investigation into the sequence of events is underway.
Representatives from the Clinton Power Plant released a statement expressing their condolences to Ward’s family, colleagues, and friends, describing him as a dedicated, skilled, and passionate worker. “Sam was not only a talented professional but also a valued member of our team whose presence brightened the workplace every day,” said a plant spokesperson. “We are devastated by this incident and are fully cooperating with local authorities to understand what happened and prevent future occurrences.”
The Decatur community has rallied around Ward’s loved ones, offering support and comfort in a time of unimaginable grief. Colleagues recall Ward as a committed and hardworking technician who often went above and beyond to ensure safety and operational efficiency at the plant. His positive attitude and willingness to mentor younger team members made him a respected and beloved figure among employees.
Local emergency officials, including the DeWitt County Coroner’s Office and occupational safety inspectors, are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the precise cause of the electrocution. Preliminary reports indicate that Ward was following standard maintenance procedures, but authorities are examining equipment, safety protocols, and environmental conditions to identify contributing factors. Constellation Energy has pledged to implement any recommended safety measures promptly to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Family members described Ward as a devoted son, loving brother, and loyal friend whose kindness and generosity left lasting impressions on everyone he met. Community members and friends have begun organizing memorials to honor his life and contributions, reflecting on his dedication, humor, and the impact he made in his short but meaningful life.
Authorities remind workers in high-risk occupations to strictly adhere to safety protocols and to report any hazards immediately. Meanwhile, DeWitt County continues to mourn the passing of a young man whose energy, skill, and spirit were admired by all who knew him. Ward’s legacy will endure in the hearts of his coworkers, family, and the wider community, serving as a solemn reminder of the importance of safety in every workplace.