Tree falls in High Park, 2 taken to hospital
July 29, 2008
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Precious Yutangco
STAFF REPORTER
Part of High Park remains closed tonight after a large oak tree fell on to a children’s playground, sending a woman and a 10-year-old boy to hospital.
Witnesses told police that around 3 p.m., out of nowhere, the oak tree fell on to the Adventure Playground, which is located in the southeast part of the large park at Bloor St. W. and Parkside Dr.
One woman, who was at the park with her son and her grandchildren, suffered a broken arm.
The10-year-old boy suffered minor injuries.
"There were some kids around but apparently it fell without hurting anybody seriously," said Staff Sgt. Blake Shreve of Toronto police.
Hundreds of kids were in the park, said Shreve, who noted the injury count could have been a lot worse.
"We’re very fortunate. It did fall in an area where kids do play, there was a playground there. It’s a very big tree and it could have killed people."
Shreve said there was no wind or severe weather, so as of Tuesday night there was no explanation for why the tree fell on to the castle-themed playground.
"It’s a good-sized tree that just fell apparently because it was old and rotten," Shreve said.
"There was probably a problem with it."
Police have closed the playground and the surrounding area pending clean-up by Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation. Spring Rd. and Deer Pen Rd., which are smaller streets in High Park, will remain closed until debris is cleaned up.
Although no estimates have been released, police say parts of the playground may have to be rebuilt because of the damage.
The rest of the park remains open.
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