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Report: Florida Lineman Working To Restore Power On L.I. Attacked In East Meadow

EAST MEADOW, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- A lineman from Florida who was working with the Long Island Power Authority to help restore power said he was attacked while walking into a restaurant in Nassau County.

John Applewhite may have to have his jaw wired shut after he said he was attacked outside the Texas Roadhouse restaurant in East Meadow on Friday.

WCBS 880's Sophia Hall reports

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Nassau County police said someone walked up to the 34-year-old, punched him in the face and then took off in a dark-colored BMW sedan.

"He met me halfway between my truck and his vehicle and just as I got within arm's reach, he decked me," Applewhite told WTSP TV in Tampa.

Nassau County police did not identify Applewhite by his name or occupation, but said the victim of the attack had a broken nose with swelling and bruising to his left eye.

Applewhite said he also suffered a broken jaw and facial fractures.

"They're going to put a plate in my face and wire my jaw," he said. "At least three surgeons will do work on me."

Authorities are looking at surveillance video and believe frustration over prolonged power outages may have led to the attack.

Anyone with information should call Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS. All callers will remain anonymous.

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