Tree Limb Crushes Woman Walking in Washington Square Park

A 55-year-old woman was hit by a tree limb as she walked through Washington Square Park Monday night, authorities say. 

The woman was taken to a hospital in critical condition, suffering from spinal and neck injuries. Her name was not immediately released. 

A Parks Department spokeswoman said the tree was inspected Tuesday morning and appeared to show signs of having Massaria, a fungus, which may have made the limb fall. Massaria is most often found in London Plane trees.

The one involved in Monday’s accident was a 35-footer that had most recently been inspected in July 2017 prior to Tuesday’s check. It was pruned in August of that year and described as being in fair condition with a low risk factor. 

“We will conduct further inspections of the tree, and surrounding trees, and will address accordingly,” the Parks Department said in a statement.