PRINCESS ANNE, Md. (AP) – Delmarva Power says it did not cut off power to a family of eight who died of accidental carbon monoxide poisoning because they were behind on their utility bills.
Spokesman Matt Likovich says the utility discovered a stolen electric meter had been illegally connected to the rental home where the family was living since November.
The utility says the meter was disconnected for safety reasons on March 25.
Rodney Todd and his two sons and five daughters then used a generator for power. They were last seen alive on March 28.
Likovich says Delmarva Power is deeply saddened by the tragedy and urges anyone with power issues to contact them to ensure continued safe electrical service.