ST. FRANCIS, Wis. — A Milwaukee man is facing serious charges following an explosion at a We Energies substation two months ago. The incident occurred when he allegedly attempted to cut a live wire connected to a transformer, resulting in a dangerous fireball that was captured on surveillance video.
James Schneck, 44, has been charged with two felonies, including criminal trespass and intentional damage to energy provider property. The explosion, which took place at the substation on South Kinnickinnic Avenue, not only caused an immediate hazard but also left Schneck with significant burns. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, noting the power outage affected roughly 2,200 customers.
We Energies spokesperson Brendan Conway expressed astonishment that Schneck survived the incident. High-voltage equipment operates at levels 10 to 20 times greater than typical home outlets, making unauthorized access perilous. Conway revealed that We Energies incurred approximately $100,000 in damages as a result of the explosion.
According to court documents, Schneck entered the site by cutting through security fencing in an attempt to steal copper. Instead of achieving his goal, he was seen biking away from the scene, visibly injured. Authorities linked Schneck to the explosion through evidence recovered at the site, including a mobile phone that featured a facial recognition photo.
While addressing concerns about security at such critical infrastructure, Conway affirmed that We Energies collaborates closely with agencies like the FBI and Homeland Security to enhance safety. “We take these threats seriously,” he stated, without disclosing specific measures the company is implementing to prevent similar incidents in the future.
During an interview with law enforcement, Schneck reportedly likened the pain in his face to a blowtorch. He articulated that his actions were driven by financial desperation and a long-standing practice of scrapping metal. Conway cautioned potential thieves about the dangers of such actions, emphasizing that the pursuit of scrap metal in high-risk areas should be avoided altogether.
If convicted of the charges, Schneck could spend up to 12 years behind bars and face fines totaling $20,000. The case serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with tampering with critical utility infrastructure and the severe consequences that can follow.