Giant Pine Tree Crashes Into New Jersey Home During Record-Breaking Blizzard
A large pine tree fell on a Mercer County couple’s home during one of the worst blizzards in decades. As Danielle and Chris Pinelli slept late Sunday night, the top half of a giant white pine in their backyard split off, sending heavy branches inside their house.
One branch broke through the roof and ceiling and fell into Danielle Pinelli’s bed. Another branch shattered the roof, wall, and couple’s closet. We were saved by God. She said, “That’s all I can say,” recalling the terrifying moment. Before the branches hit, Chris Pinelli heard a loud crash and had seconds to respond.
Soon after the incident, Hightstown Fire Department emergency personnel helped during a trying period. The quick response relieved fire department association member Danielle Pinelli. After living in South Brunswick, where she anticipated a similar disaster, she was wary of living near tall trees.
The following day, a crane removed the fallen tree from the property. The couple will stay in the residence until their trip later in the week despite the damage. No one was hurt, but the incident caused severe property damage.
Winter weather, especially heavy snow and strong winds, can weaken big trees, as this spectacular occurrence shows. In extreme weather, residents with older or huge trees should be vigilant and have emergency plans.
Sources:
- New Jersey State Government – Office of Emergency Management
- Hightstown Fire Department
