Man Dies When Tree Falls on House

LAKE OSWEGO – During the winter storm and high winds on Saturday morning, January 13, 2024, a very large tree fell on a house in the Southwood area of Lake Oswego. The tree crashed through the second floor, killing an elderly man who was inside. While fire and police units were at the scene, another tree fell onto a vehicle just two homes down from this one as those homeowners were starting to back out of their driveway. Fortunately, those people were uninjured.

Since 7:00 A.M., the Lake Oswego police and fire departments have responded to a significant number of incidents related to the weather. At least 70 incidents occurred since then with most of those being downed trees. “Today, we have had at least around 20 different trees fall onto homes, which is very rare. I have never seen this many in my 25-year career here at Lake Oswego Fire,” Gert Zoutendijk said.

More than 100 trees have fallen throughout the city during the day. In addition, fallen powerlines, trees, and limbs on roadways and sidewalks are causing hazards, especially in the dark. Avoid going outside, and only call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.

Many people are experiencing power outages throughout the region. To report downed power lines, contact PGE at 503-464-7777. You can check out their power outage map at https://portlandgeneral.com/outages.

Media inquiries can be directed to Fire Marshal Gert Zoutendijk at gzoutendijk@lakeoswego.city or 503-699-7454.

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