Eleven persons have been confirmed dead in an incident that involved a large tree that fell on two vehicles at Awhum Village Market Square in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The Enugu State Police Command, through its Spokesman of the Command, SP Daniel Ndukwe, confirmed the tragic incident, which occurred late Tuesday.
He stated that the incident involved a Toyota Hiace bus and a Sienna minivan, while 15 victims were passengers in the vehicles.
Ndukwe added that upon receiving the report, operatives attached to 9th Mile Division swiftly responded and with the assistance of community members, they rescued four persons trapped in the vehicles and secured the scene.
He said regrettably the 11 other victims were rushed to the hospital but were later confirmed dead by attending doctors, adding that their remains have been deposited in the mortuary for further necessary procedures.
“Preliminary findings indicate that the vehicles had conveyed passengers from Old Park, Enugu, and were heading to various villages within the Awhum/Okpatu axis.
“They had stopped to drop off passengers when the tree, weakened by heavy rainfall, strong winds, and apparent internal decay, collapsed on them.
“The Commissioner of Police commiserates with the families of the deceased and the entire Awhum Community over the unfortunate incident.
“He further advises community leaders and residents across the State to regularly inspect and maintain large or aging trees around markets, motor parks, schools, and residential areas, particularly during the rainy season, to prevent similar tragedies,” the Police spokesman stated.
