Seven residents killed by falling tree in Pidie, says BPBD

The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Pidie Regency, Aceh Province, has reported that seven residents died after being struck by a falling tree on the Banda Aceh–Medan national road in the Tanjong Krueng area of Sigli.

Nasruddin, Head of the Fire and Rescue Division at BPBD Pidie, said the incident occurred on Tuesday (11/8) at around 9.00 pm Western Indonesia Time.

“A total of seven people were recorded as having died after being hit by a large kedondong tree that fell onto the road. The victims were passengers in an open-bed truck,” he said.

The seven victims were identified as Zubaidah (60), Nurmawati (50), Rapasah (55), Patimah Wati (47), Salbiah (68), Zainabon (64), and Halimah (68).

“All the victims were residents of Gampong Puli Seke, Pidie District, Pidie Regency,” he said.

The incident began when the open-bed truck carrying the victims was travelling along the Banda Aceh–Medan national road in the Tanjong Krueng area. A large tree, believed to be old and suffering from root decay, suddenly fell and struck the truck carrying the group from Gampong Puli.

BPBD personnel cleared the tree debris to facilitate the evacuation of the victims. Officers also recorded and monitored the condition of victims receiving medical treatment.

“BPBD Pidie Regency urges the public to remain vigilant when passing through areas with large trees, especially during unfavourable weather conditions and when there is a risk of falling trees,” Nasruddin said.