UMVA has learned that a dramatic and terrifying scene unfolded outside a school in Oshawa, Ontario, when a young boy under the age of 12 was struck by a massive maple tree branch that came crashing down during the lunch hour.
The incident occurred on a chaotic Thursday at Monsignor Philip Coffey Catholic School, located on Oxford St. and Dwight Ave., with multiple witnesses and students present as a large branch suddenly broke off a tree and hit the child with great force.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the boy was initially unresponsive and possibly without vital signs after being struck, but thanks to the swift actions of school staff and emergency responders, he was able to regain consciousness and was airlifted to a trauma centre in the Toronto area.
Acting Sgt. Nick Gluckstein described the heroic efforts of the staff, who performed life-saving measures until police and medical personnel arrived on the scene, taking over and ultimately managing to restore the boy's vital signs and bring him back to consciousness.
A severe storm had battered the area the previous night, with heavy rain, thunder, and strong winds continuing into the morning before easing off, and Gluckstein suggested that this might have contributed to the branch breaking off, but a full investigation is underway to determine the exact cause.
It took around 10 people to carefully lift and remove the massive branch from the boy's upper body, and once freed, he was rushed to hospital via air ambulance, a decision that underscored the gravity and severity of his injuries.
The boy's parents were also taken to the hospital by police, and Gluckstein confirmed that the child suffered serious and significant injuries, with authorities working to piece together the events leading up to the accident, including potential neglect or inadequate maintenance of the tree.
The Durham Catholic District School Board released a brief statement expressing gratitude to emergency responders and school staff for their rapid response, while also assuring that support systems were in place for students and staff affected by the traumatic event.
The school community has been left shaken but is rallying around the student and their family, with prayers and well-wishes pouring in as they face this incredibly difficult and trying time.
