FERNAN, Idaho – A windstorm caused a tree to fall on a home in the Village of Fernan, leading to the tragic death of a 55-year-old resident while several others were trapped inside.
Cheri Koch, a resident of the Village of Fernan, recounted the morning’s events.
“We heard the sirens this morning and found out that some trees have gone down locally here by the lake,” said Koch.
The Village of Fernan, a picturesque neighborhood by Lake Fernan, is known for its towering trees. However, with winds blowing at 60 to 70 mph, a decades-old tree succumbed, causing significant damage to the community.
“It’s just it’s a good community and it’s just too bad,” said Koch.
Battalion Chief Justin Capaul of Kootenai County Fire and Rescue reported that his crew rescued several people trapped inside the house around 6:00 a.m.
“There was extensive damage to the home. We have most of the tree removed from the house. We used a crane, brought a crane in, removed most of the tree,” said Capaul.
The fallen tree was approximately 4 feet wide. Capaul noted that recent rainfall likely moistened the soil, causing the tree to crack and detach from the ground.
“Some of these trees are old and tall. So, you know, anything can happen,” said Capaul.
Capaul advised residents to be cautious of old trees during severe windstorms. Koch and her neighbors are now more aware of the potential danger.
“I’m up the street. So far I’m good. But I’ve got some old trees as well and we’ll see how it goes,” said Koch.
