Man set on fire in industrial accident during thunderstorm

An industrial accident in East Greenbush this morning has severely injured a 57-year-old Vermont man, according to East Greenbush Police.

The man was working on the ground near an elevated crane that had apparently become energized during a passing thunderstorm; it then energized the ground around it, causing burn injuries to the victim and setting him on fire.

Other workers rushed to his aid and used fire extinguishers to put out the burning clothing.

Responding emergency workers administered first aid on the victim; he was treated at the scene and transported to Albany Medical Center Hospital.

Officials are investigating, police said.