A 50-year-old oak tree collapsed in Venice this past weekend, injuring multiple people and raising new concerns about tree maintenance in aging neighborhoods. The tree, once considered a local fixture, came crashing down without warning in the late afternoon, striking pedestrians and damaging two parked cars.
What Happened?
Witnesses say the oak split at the base around 3:45 p.m. on Saturday near the corner of Grand Boulevard and Riviera Avenue. The weather was calm, and there were no immediate signs the tree was compromised. Within seconds, the 50-year-old oak collapsed, sending people running and others scrambling to help the injured.
Emergency crews arrived within minutes. At least four people were taken to local hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries, including one elderly man who was briefly pinned under a large branch. Bystanders helped clear debris before paramedics arrived, according to local reports.
Why Did the Oak Collapse?
While investigations are still ongoing, early signs point to root rot and internal decay. City arborists inspected the tree on-site and noted fungal growth and hollowing in the trunk. Though the 50-year-old oak appeared healthy on the outside, the structural integrity had likely been compromised for years.
This incident has sparked questions about how trees of that age are inspected and maintained—especially in a city like Venice, where mature trees are part of the charm but can pose real dangers.
Residents React
The collapse has left residents shaken. “That tree was here when I was a kid,” said Marina Lopez, a local business owner. “We’ve walked past it every day. You never expect something like that to happen.”
Others are calling for more frequent inspections of large trees, particularly those near high-traffic pedestrian areas. Some say this isn’t the first time a large tree has fallen unexpectedly in the area.
What Comes Next?
The city’s urban forestry department has promised a full review of similar trees in Venice. Officials also encouraged residents to report any signs of decay or instability in trees near their homes or businesses.
For now, cleanup crews have removed the remains of the 50-year-old oak, and city engineers are checking nearby infrastructure for damage. While those injured are expected to recover, the incident is a stark reminder of the balance between natural beauty and urban safety.
