Cooper inspects damaged substations after power grid attack

Governor Roy Cooper visited Moore County’s electrical substations Monday afternoon after a widespread power outage occurred on Saturday evening that left at least 38,000 customers without power due to an attack on our power grid.

Two substations, in Carthage and West End, were damaged by gunfire. No arrests have been made. 

“This was a criminal attack, and federal, state, and local law enforcement are actively working to bring those responsible to justice,” said Cooper during a press conference at the Rick Rhyne Public Safety Center in Carthage. “Regardless of motive, violence and sabotage will not be tolerated.” 

Cooper thanked the men and women who are working hard to restore power back to the community. Members of the community served meals and beverages to those working to restore power throughout the day Monday. 

“I am impressed with the resilience and community spirit of Moore County,” said Cooper. “I am grateful for their public spirit, and their help for each other.” 

Cooper added, “We’re evaluating where to work with utility providers, state, federal officials to make sure that we harden our infrastructures where necessary and work to prevent future damage.”

Cooper spoke with U.S. district attorney, Moore County District Attorney Mike Harden, FBI, SBI and Moore County Sheriff Fields.

“The officials are leaving no stones unturned,” said Cooper. 

Fields reminded the public if you know something about the attack on our power grid, call the tip line at (910) 947-4444. 

N.C. Secretary of Public Safety Eddie Buffalo told reporters, “N.C. Department of Public Safety is fully engaged with personnel and resources.” 

The State Highway Patrol, N.C. Department of Emergency Management, Alcohol Law enforcement, and the SBI are assisting the FBI and the Moore County Sheriff’s Office with the investigation.

Jeff Brooks, from Duke Energy, spoke on the progress of the repairs. According to Brooks, nearly 7,000 customers regained power Sunday evening.

“As work continues, more people will gain power,” said Brooks. “For the majority, outages will continue until we get those repairs completed. Some equipment could be repaired, and some had to be replaced.” 

Duke Energy expects some outages could last Wednesday into Thursday. 

Brooks announced Duke Energy will be making an initial contribution of $100,000 to the community to help with the economy that has been shut down. Duke Energy will be working with Red Cross and other organizations. 

Photo: Crews work on Carthage’s sub station Monday after an unknown person(s) attacked our power grid by gunfire.

~Article and photo by Sandhills Sentinel Reporter Curtis Self. Contact him at [email protected].