Falling tree limb kills man, injures 5 during Mother's Day barbecue
PASSAIC, N.J. -- A man was killed and five others were left hospitalized after lightning struck a massive tree, causing a branch to fall on the crowd during a Mother's Day barbecue in New Jersey.
CBS New York reports lighting struck the tree just before 5 p.m. Sunday in Passaic. Authorities say it happened so quickly that the family couldn't get out of the way in time.
Six people were rushed to a nearby hospital to receive treatment of various injuries. A 28-year-old man was initially listed in critical condition, but he later succumbed to his injuries. The man's identity is being withheld pending family notification. The extent of the other victims' injuries was not immediately known.
"We're a city right now in shock and trying to unite together in prayer for the family on this Mother's Day," Passaic Mayor Hector Lora said. "The children lost a parent, and a mother is in a hospital."
A preliminary investigation revealed a fast-moving storm with strong winds and heavy rains was pounding the area at the time.
The incident remains under investigation.
