Inmate dies by electrocution in Benton work release unit

BENTON, Ark. – Officials with the Arkansas Board of Corrections said that an inmate died by electrocution in a work-related accident at the Arkansas Department of Corrections Benton Work Release Unit Friday.

Corrections officials said that 42-year-old Nathan Boursh was part of a grounds crew at the facility that was doing regular upkeep.

Witnesses at the scene said that Boursh took a metal pole he found while working around a pond to try and retrieve a fishing lure that was wrapped around an electrical power line.  When the pole touched the line, officials said Boursh was apparently electrocuted.

Authorities said that life saving measures were started at the scene and Boursh was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Detectives with the Arkansas State Police are investigating the death, and the department is co...