Narrow Escape in Fordham Manor Park as Massive Tree Branch Crashes Down
In a harrowing incident at St. James Park in Fordham Manor, a heavy tree branch suddenly broke off and came crashing down, sending a group of children and a mother with a stroller scrambling to safety. Eyewitnesses recount the tense moments as the branch fell, and authorities respond to the scene to assess the damage and ensure no one was injured.A Terrifying Moment Averted by Quick Reactions
The Sudden Collapse
On a seemingly calm Saturday evening in Fordham Manor, the tranquility of St. James Park was shattered by the sudden and dramatic collapse of a massive tree branch. Witnesses reported that around 10 children and a young mother with a toddler and another child in a stroller were in the immediate vicinity when the incident occurred, narrowly escaping injury as the heavy branch came crashing down.Despite the lack of strong winds or severe weather conditions at the time, the branch broke free from its trunk, sending those underneath scrambling to safety. Eyewitnesses described the incident as lasting only about 10 seconds, with the initial crack of the branch followed by frantic cries of "Run!" from onlookers.A Temporary Reprieve
According to one witness, the branches from other nearby trees temporarily stalled the eventual fall of the broken tree branch, allowing those underneath a few more precious seconds to get out of the way and escape unharmed. This small window of time proved crucial, as the group was able to react quickly and avoid being struck by the falling debris.The park was bustling with activity at the time, with a number of family gatherings and recreational activities taking place. Norwood News estimates that there were approximately 200 people in the park when the incident occurred, just behind the tennis courts near the Jerome Avenue side of the park.Emergency Response and Aftermath
Emergency services were promptly called to the scene, with the FDNY and EMS responding to a report of a downed tree and "people trapped" at around 7:56 pm on June 22, 2024. Upon arrival, however, officials found that while a tree branch had indeed fallen, no one was trapped or injured as a result.The fallen branch, which was described as heavy and substantial, was left lying in the park as authorities assessed the situation. Witnesses noted that some of the other trees in the area appeared to be growing at an unusual angle, raising concerns about their stability and the potential for further incidents.The Norwood News has reached out to the Parks Department for comment on the incident and any plans for addressing the concerns raised by the eyewitnesses. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this close call, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of all who visit the beloved St. James Park.
