
Falling tree kills toddler in Lower Southampton, PA during storm
LOWER SOUTHAMPTON — A 2-year-old boy was struck and killed by a fallen tree during Saturday's thunderstorms.
As a line of thunderstorms moved through the area late in the afternoon a sudden strong wind split a tree in the backyard of the house on Midfield Road in Lower Southampton.
A section measuring 25-30 feet in length and 8-10 inches in diameter struck the child in the head while he was with his mother and an older sibling, according to Bucks County Coroner Meredith Buck.
The toddler was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders.
“This horrible tragedy was an unforeseen act of nature,” Buck said in a statement. "It fell without warning, striking the child’s head. My heart goes out to the family as they grieve this unimaginable loss.
Buck did not disclose the identity of the child.
Scott McIlvaine, the operations manager at Joseph McIlvaine Tree and Lawn Service, told 6 ABC Action News that trees at this time of year are heavier because they are full of sap.
Dan Alexander is a reporter for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at dan.alexander@townsquaremedia.com
Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.