Downed utility line blocks traffic

Traffic was blocked on Highway 200 east of Thompson Falls Tuesday morning after a utility pole was struck. NorthWestern Energy, as well as local fire and law enforcement personnel, responded to a call about 9:30 a.m. of a power line over the highway near 4 Kids Mini Storage.

According to first responders, a vehicle likely ran over the grounding wire next to the pole on the mini storage side of the highway, pulling down that pole, along with a pole across the highway. The overhead utility wire stretched across the highway, blocking traffic. One vehicle ran into the wire but was only slightly damaged.

The vehicle that caused the obstruction drove away from the scene. Law enforcement and first responders were trying to determine the manner in which the pole was damaged, as well as searching for the vehicle.