Playa del Carmen man dies electrocuted during alleged copper theft

A man identified as Patricio “N”, known locally as “El Pato,” died from electrocution in Playa del Carmen while allegedly attempting to steal copper cable from a Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE) registry.

The incident occurred on Avenue 115 near the Bali settlement. Witnesses reported a loud explosion caused by an electric arc, which also interrupted the power supply for nearby homes. Emergency services arrived at the scene, but paramedics confirmed the individual had no vital signs due to the severity of the high-voltage discharge.

Municipal police cordoned off the area to preserve evidence, and the Fiscalía General del Estado was called to oversee the investigation and the removal of the body. Local residents noted that the deceased was known in the area for frequently attempting to steal electrical materials from public and private infrastructure. CFE crews were dispatched to repair the damaged wiring and restore electricity to the affected neighborhood.