High school senior dies when tree crushes trailer during weekend getaway, officials say
A high school senior was killed when a tree came crashing down days before graduation, North Carolina officials said.
The 18-year-old student was on a Memorial Day weekend getaway with friends when the trip took a tragic turn, according to Clay County Emergency Medical Services.
“A large tree had been up-rooted by heavy straight-line winds and landed on the portion of the trailer that housed the victim,” first responders wrote on Facebook.
The incident was reported in the Penland Point area, near Lake Chatuge and a roughly 100-mile drive southwest from the popular mountain town of Asheville. EMS workers and firefighters responded to the scene early Monday, May 27.
Officials said they found the high school student dead in a damaged “camper-trailer.” The National Weather Service reportedly told first responders that “straight-line winds were up to 50-70 mph” around the time the tree fell.
“All of Clay County Emergency Services mourn this tragic loss with the victim’s family, friends, classmates, and community,” officials wrote.
Though EMS workers didn’t identify the 18-year-old in their post, they said she attended Tuscola High School in Haywood County. She died days before graduation, which is scheduled for May 31, according to the school’s website.
In response to McClatchy News’ request for comment about the death of a student, Haywood County Schools shared a statement via email.
“We are mourning the loss of one of our precious students,” Superintendent Trevor Putnam wrote. “Our hearts and minds are with the family during this very difficult time. Additional support is available for staff and students needing assistance.”
This story was originally published May 28, 2024 at 12:26 PM with the headline "High school senior dies when tree crushes trailer during weekend getaway, officials say."
