A subcontractor of Bear Communications, which had been contracted by Verizon for a fiber optic project, was working at the site of the gas main explosion, according to a statement from the company.
"A subcontractor of Bear Communications was performing work on site before the explosion, but there are many questions that remain to be answered as the investigation continues. We are fully cooperating with investigators so they can develop a comprehensive overview of what happened and why," read a statement from a public relations firm representing Bear.
Bear had been contracted by Verizon for a fiber optic project in Sun Prairie, however Verizon employees were not present at the job site, according to a Verizon statement.
Verizon contracted with Bear Communications for a fiber project for the Madison area, including Sun Prairie, to improve our wireless network," read their statement.
Bear said they are cooperating with investigators, while Verizon said they have not been contacted about the investigation.
Verizon's statement:
Tuesday evening's explosion in Sun Prairie is tragic. Verizon's employees join the community in mourning the loss of a firefighter's life, and we pray for the speedy and complete recovery of those harmed. Verizon contracted with Bear Communications for a fiber project for the Madison area, including Sun Prairie, to improve our wireless network. No Verizon employees were present at the job site. Verizon does contract with local providers in various markets to provide fiber backhaul for our networks. While we have not been contacted about the investigation, both we and Bear are prepared to work with law enforcement, public safety and public officials as they investigate this tragic situation.
Bear Communications statement
First and foremost, our condolences and prayers go out to the family of Sun Prairie volunteer fire department Capt. Cory Barr who lost his life in the explosion. Our prayers also go out to those injured in the accident. We share in the community’s shock and sadness over this tragedy.
A subcontractor of Bear Communications was performing work on site before the explosion, but there are many questions that remain to be answered as the investigation continues. We are fully cooperating with investigators so they can develop a comprehensive overview of what happened and why. Since this is an ongoing investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment any further.
For more go to WKOW: http://www.wkow.com/story/38632243/2018/07/12/bear-communications-says-its-subcontractor-was-working-at-site-of-explosion