Army questions aspects of electrocution story

[unhappycamper]

Army questions aspects of electrocution story
By Kimberly Hefling - The Associated Press
Posted : Wednesday Jan 28, 2009 17:44:07 EST

WASHINGTON — The Army on Wednesday challenged an injured military police officer’s account that he received a severe shock while he was showering in Iraq.

Instead, an Army investigation found that Pfc. Justin Shults, 21, was shocked Oct. 18 on metal steps attached to a shower trailer, the Army said in a statement. It said the shock was caused by an “improperly bonded electrical conduit pipe” on the ground.

Shults’ account generated attention because at least two soldiers have been electrocuted while showering in Iraq, and the military has faced criticism for the electrical work done where troops live.

In stories published earlier this week, Shults said he was knocked unconscious when he adjusted a wall heating and air conditioner unit while showering. Shults, who is in outpatient care at Fort Sam Houston in Texas, described severe burns to his limbs and groin.

Two messages left for Shults on Wednesday were not returned.


Rest of article at: http://armytimes.com/news/2009/01/ap_iraq_electrocution_012809w/%2e