'It was a freak accident': 7 injured as tree branch breaks and falls on visitors at San Antonio Zoo
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS: At least seven people, including a child, were severely injured in a tragic accident that took place on Wednesday afternoon, March 15, at the San Antonio Zoo. According to local reports, all the injured people were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. "We heard what sounded like fireworks followed by a crackling noise. I turned around and realized that a branch was falling down and that crackling noise was the breaking of wood!" a visitor at the zoo, Chris Ryan, told FOX 29.
The zoo’s security and emergency medical team quickly jumped into action and provided first-aid treatment to injured people. Within minutes, San Antonio and fire crews were at the scene and assisted with the rescue. "It was a freak accident. It was so scary. I saw a woman running for help with blood on her hands. I heard people screaming. I just hope everyone is okay. Thinking about it now is even scarier because any little detour could have put us in that spot," said witness Brandy Lorraine.
READ MORE
Jeremy Renner's nephew pens heartfelt recovery note after actor's horrifying snow plow accident
'Unfortunate accident'
Tim Morrow, the president and CEO of San Antonio Zoo tweeted on Thursday morning, March 16, "We are working with our internal and external teams to investigate the cause of the breakage to prevent this unusual event from happening again."
Hope Roth, vice-president of marketing at the zoo, said, "A large part of a cedar elm tree "unexpectedly broke and fell" on the guests,” calling it an “unfortunate accident.” However, the zoo will be open on Thursday, as per schedule.
This is a developing story. MEAWW will keep you updated.