TALLAHASSEE — Two people died after a large tree fell onto a vehicle during severe weather Tuesday evening on Barclay Lane, city police said. The crash occurred in the area of Barclay Lane and Godfrey Place at about 5:17 p.m., and emergency crews pronounced both occupants dead at the scene.
Tallahassee Police Department investigators are treating the incident as a crash resulting from a falling tree that struck the vehicle’s front seat area while it was traveling southbound, according to preliminary findings released by TPD.
What happened and who responded
Crews from the Tallahassee Fire Department arrived within minutes of the initial call and attempted life-saving measures, the department said. Leon County EMS and Fielder Tree Service also assisted officers and firefighters at the scene.
- Time of incident: approximately 5:17 p.m. Tuesday
- Location: Barclay Lane near Godfrey Place
- Responding agencies: Tallahassee Police Department, Tallahassee Fire Department, Leon County EMS, Fielder Tree Service
Investigators reported that severe weather caused a large tree to topple across the roadway and land directly on the front seating area of the vehicle while it was in motion. The two people inside were pronounced dead at the scene after responders attempted resuscitative efforts.
"Motorists were urged to avoid the area while the investigation remains open and active. Police said updates will be provided as more information becomes available."
Local impact and ongoing investigation
The crash closed the immediate area to traffic while officers and crews worked to clear debris and conduct a traffic investigation. TPD has characterized its review as preliminary and said the investigation remains open and active; officials did not release the victims’ names or other identifying details.
| Time | Action |
|---|---|
| ~5:17 p.m. | Tree fell on vehicle; emergency call received |
| Within minutes | Fire and EMS crews arrived; life-saving measures attempted |
| After initial response | Traffic investigation opened; scene assistance from Fielder Tree Service |
Residents should take the severe-weather risk into account when traveling during storms, especially on tree-lined streets, and follow directions from police and emergency crews when an area is blocked. Tallahassee authorities asked drivers to avoid Barclay Lane and the Godfrey Place area while the investigation continues and cleanup is underway.
TPD said it will provide further information as it becomes available.
