Local

Toppled tree in South End crushes cars, startles neighbors

BOSTON — Neighbors in Boston’s South End were left startled when a giant tree came crashing down without warning.

It happened Tuesday around 6 p.m. on Waltham Street between Tremont and Shawmut.

The tree that towered above brownstones on the block fell across the length of the street and sidewalk.

At least three vehicles were damaged.

The action unfolded just feet from Ringgold Park, where families with young children were enjoying a beautiful evening.

“This is a very busy sidewalk. It’s very fortunate that no one was walking there when it happened,” said parent Zach Schulz.

Residents said they were surprised that the tree fell because it appeared healthy, and there hadn’t been strong wind gusts at the time.

“It was the loudest boom of all time! Everyone in the park started screaming and covering their mouth,” said neighbor Cat Lincoln.

Police ran the license plates of cars closest to the downed tree and reached out to vehicle owners by telephone.

“I was hoping I would escape unscathed, but it’s pretty bad. I think it’s gone,” said Barry Scott, whose car was damaged.

Affected car owners were still waiting for crews to clear the tree Tuesday night to assess to damage.

“It’s shocking because it’s not that windy, and it’s an enormous tree,” said Nick Pomposelli, whose car was damaged.

Waltham Street remained closed to traffic between Tremont and Shawmut late Tuesday night because of the downed tree.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW