Auburn Police are investigating a criminal mischief incident in which a stolen forklift crashed into high voltage transmission lines in the Lewiston-Auburn area, cutting power to nearly 7,000 customers.

According to the Police, the incident took place at the storage facility construction site at Turner St/Center St. 

“Unknown subjects broke into the construction site overnight and took a forklift for a joyride through the site. The subjects extended the forks and entangled them in the power lines overhead, which resulted in a significant power outage in the area,” a spokesperson confirms.

The stolen forklift appears to be a JCB telehandler.

The local power utility, Central Maine Power, says its crews were able to restore power to more than 80% of affected customers within 10 minutes, thanks to investments in modern grid technology.

CMP attributes the rapid recovery to its automated reclosers and remote switches.

“This type of outcome is precisely why we continue to pursue strategies and investments to further enhance grid automation,” says Adam Desrosiers, vice president of electric operations for CMP. 

Police continue to investigate the incident.