Updated

Updated · Fox News · Aug 19

Falling Tree Kills 8-Year-Old at YMCA Camp, Closing Massachusetts Site for Rest of Week

Updated

Updated · Fox News · Aug 19

Falling Tree Kills 8-Year-Old at YMCA Camp, Closing Massachusetts Site for Rest of Week

Q: What hidden natural danger triggered the deadly domino effect that claimed an 8-year-old's life at a historic summer camp?

The hidden natural danger was a large tree that suddenly fell in the wooded camp area, knocking down another tree in a “domino effect” and sending branches onto the campers and staff below. Officials said the children and counselors were in an open clearing in the woods at Camp Chickami when one large tree came down and brought down a second tree. The 8-year-old boy was struck by a large branch, while a counselor was hit by a smaller one and suffered minor injuries. Authorities have not identified a more specific trigger, such as rot, wind, or disease, and said the exact cause remains under investigation. Camp officials said the property has an annual tree maintenance plan, but they do not yet know what caused this highly unusual natural event.

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Aug 19

An 8-year-old boy died after a tree fell on multiple people Tuesday morning at YMCA Camp Chickami in Wayland, Massachusetts; a camp counselor was also injured.
Fire Chief Neil McPherson said a large branch hit the boy after one tree fell into another, creating a domino effect; the counselor was struck by a smaller branch.
First responders found the child with life-threatening injuries and flew him by medical helicopter to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead; the adult was treated for minor injuries and released.
Camp Chickami will remain closed for the rest of the week, and the West Suburban YMCA said it is offering grief counseling and support resources to campers, staff and families.
Wayland police and fire officials called the death a tragic accident as the community mourns and the incident remains under investigation.