Overview

• The electrocution occurred around 5 p.m. on Diva–Shil Road near Sudama Residency in Thane during an attempt to free a pigeon from overhead power cables.
• Utsav (Utsab) Patil, 28, was declared dead at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Hospital in Kalwa, while Azad Patil, 29, is being treated for serious burns to his hands and chest.
• The Thane Fire Brigade and civic officials said an investigation is underway to determine whether safety gear was used and standard procedures were followed.
• Torrent Power stated it was informed only after the accident and reiterated that its protocol requires prior notification to disconnect power for work near lines.
• Chief Fire Officer Girish Zalake confirmed both responders were contract staff, as residents and social workers questioned training and preparedness for high‑risk rescues.