KEENE, N.H. – Police say three striking FairPoint workers were struck by a vehicle driven by a replacement worker as they were picketing in Keene.
Keene police say one picketer went to a hospital for an evaluation Tuesday afternoon but did not have serious injuries. The two others refused medical treatment.
Authorities say the replacement worker drove across a picket line Tuesday afternoon and hit the three picketers.
Police are still investigating the incident and have not determined if the driver will be charged.
The union said the incident reflects poorly on FairPoint.
“Today’s near-tragedy in Keene shows just how reckless FairPoint has become,” said Glenn Brackett, business manager for International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 2320, in a statement emailed to the media. “FairPoint is hiring clearly unqualified contractors, and we have no idea if these people have had proper background checks.”
FairPoint spokeswoman Angelynne Beaudry said the company is reviewing the incident.
More than 1,700 workers in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont have been on strike since Oct. 17.
The North Carolina-based company imposed its final offer in August after declaring an impasse.
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