Robert Anderson Obituary: Tragic Death of Beloved Central Catholic High School Teacher and Cyclist After Hitting Down Power Lines in North Park
Robert Anderson, a 63-year-old beloved teacher at Central Catholic High School and an avid cyclist, met a tragic end on Tuesday night in North Park. His body was discovered by a jogger around 8:30 p.m. on a trail near the Olympia shelter, surrounded by live wires. Despite efforts to reach him, first responders were unable to access the area until Duquesne Light cut power to the downed lines at 10:30 p.m. Unfortunately, Mr. Anderson was pronounced dead at the scene.
The power lines had been reported down and smoking on the trail as early as 8:40 a.m. that day, with Allegheny County emergency dispatchers notified of the live wires. First responders checked the scene and determined the wires belonged to Duquesne Light, which was notified just after 8:50 a.m. The trail was roped off with caution tape at the main entrance and at multiple points leading up to where the wires were down, and the nearby park shelter was also taped off. However, a jogger coming from the opposite direction encountered Mr. Anderson’s body and called the police.
The medical examiner’s office ruled Mr. Anderson’s death an accident caused by high-voltage electrocution. Mr. Anderson was a cherished member of the Central Catholic community, serving as the chair of the health and physical education department. He was dedicated to his students and played a vital role in promoting personal health and wellness. Central Catholic President Matthew J. Stoessel praised Mr. Anderson’s dedication, stating that he played an important role in educating students on the need for personal health and wellness.
The incident has left the community in shock, with many questioning why the downed wires were not de-energized earlier. Officials have not responded to requests for comment on the protocols surrounding live downed wires. Duquesne Light spokeswoman Hollie Geitner expressed sadness over the tragic accident and stated that they are working closely with local emergency responders and park officials to investigate the incident.
Mr. Anderson’s death serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety and taking necessary precautions. His dedication to his students and community will be deeply missed, and his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with police and the power company working together to determine the circumstances surrounding Mr. Anderson’s death. As the community mourns the loss of a beloved teacher and cyclist, they also come together to support each other and remember Mr. Anderson’s bright spirit and accomplishments.
In a statement, Central Catholic High School expressed their condolences and announced that school counselors will be available to support students, faculty, and staff following Mr. Anderson’s death. The school remembered him as an important member of their faculty, who had a nearly 20-year career in physical education and health.
Mr. Anderson’s legacy will continue to inspire and motivate those who knew him. His tragic death serves as a reminder to cherish life and prioritize safety in all aspects of life. As the community comes together to mourn the loss of a beloved teacher and cyclist, they also celebrate his life and the impact he had on those around him.
Robert Anderson’s tragic passing has left a profound impact on the lives of those who knew him. His memory will be cherished by all, and his dedication to his students and community will continue to inspire and motivate those who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, Mr. Anderson. Your memory will live on in our hearts.
