Fallen palm tree kills 8-year-old boy in Sagay

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — An 8-year-old boy died after a palm tree fell on his family’s house in Purok Fire Tree, Barangay Bulanon, Sagay City, Negros Occidental, on Wednesday.

Police said the victim was using a cellphone at home with his mother and twin sister when they suddenly heard branches cracking.

Moments later, a large palm tree about 10 meters from the house collapsed and struck the residence.

The victim was unable to escape, and the tree trunk struck him on the head.

He was taken to a hospital, where he was declared dead.

His mother and twin sister escaped safely from the house.

The victim was a Grade 2 student, according to a separate local report.

Police said the fallen tree was about 60 feet long and nearly 60 years old.

Residents said the tree may have collapsed because its roots had deteriorated.