A 14-year-old boy is fighting for his life after a devastating electrocution incident at Millfield School, one of the UK’s top private boarding schools.
Chase Allen, described by friends as a bright and athletic teenager, suffered extensive injuries when he and two other pupils came into contact with high-voltage overhead power lines on the school grounds near Street, Somerset, on Saturday, 3 May.
Emergency services — including air ambulance, paramedics, police, and fire crews — responded to the scene. All three students were taken to hospital, where they underwent emergency surgery.
“Chase has undergone multiple surgeries and remains in critical condition,” said a parent of another pupil in a post on a GoFundMe page, which has since raised over £60,000 to support his family, who live between South Africa and New Zealand.
The campaign detailed the extent of Chase’s injuries, including internal organ damage and severe burns. Most of his toes have been amputated, and doctors are working to save his feet.
“He is a real warrior,” his family said in an update. “Chase has a recovery day today and is resting ahead of his fifth surgery. We are immensely grateful for the prayers and support.”
Chase is known throughout Millfield School for his positivity and sporting talent.
Investigation Underway
The incident has been referred to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). In a letter to parents, headmaster Gavin Horgan confirmed that the pupils were injured after “contact with overhead electrical cables” and warned that it would be some time before the full extent of their injuries was known.
“The pupils are stable but have suffered serious injuries,” the letter read. “We are cooperating fully with the authorities to determine how this incident occurred.”
The school, which charges up to £58,000 per year in fees, is internationally renowned for its elite sports facilities and alumni, including former England rugby captain Chris Robshaw, Olympian Peter Wilson, singer Lily Allen, and the King of Thailand.
A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that officers responded to the scene at 7.50pm and that the case had been formally referred to the HSE.
Community Rallies in Support
The GoFundMe page created to support Chase’s family has seen donations flood in from across the UK and abroad.
Despite some criticism on social media over the need for fundraising — given the family’s association with a top private school — many have shown support, praising Chase’s resilience and the NHS teams working to save him.
“This young man is showing incredible strength,” one donor wrote. “The whole community is behind him.”
Anyone wishing to support Chase Allen’s recovery can visit the official GoFundMe page:
Support Chase Allen – Millfield School Athlete Recovery Fund
