On Thanksgiving Day, Mason County faced power outages affecting nearly 1,000 residents due to copper theft. Thieves targeted underground electrical vaults after 2 p. m. , disrupting families as they prepared for holiday dinners. Mason Public Utility District 3 restored power for most by 5:30 p.

m. , but some households remained without electricity until the next morning. The utility plans to enhance security measures at its vaults and install specialized equipment to isolate outages for more efficient repairs. The PUD urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity, noting that thieves often disguise themselves in reflective vests and hardhats. This incident highlights a growing trend of copper thefts nationwide, posing risks to both thieves and local communities.

Mason PUD 3 is committed to improving safety and reducing the impact of such crimes on residents.