Woman killed by falling tree limb on Chilliwack trail during severe weather

A 27-year-old Chilliwack woman has died after being struck by a falling tree limb while walking along a trail near the Island 22 dog park during severe weather conditions on Monday afternoon.

Chilliwack RCMP say officers were called shortly after 3:10 p.m. on December 15 after reports that a woman had been hit by a tree limb along the Island 22 trail. Police say the woman was walking with her two young children at the time, as strong winds and heavy rain moved through the area.

Members of the public who were nearby immediately called 911 and provided assistance until emergency crews arrived. Chilliwack Fire Department and BC Emergency Health Services attempted life-saving measures, but the woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

The BC Coroners Service has taken over the investigation and is working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident. Police say there is no indication of foul play and believe the death was a tragic and unforeseen accident linked to weather conditions.

RCMP confirmed the woman’s children were not physically injured and are now in the care of family members. The woman’s name has not been released out of respect for the family’s privacy, and next-of-kin notifications have been completed.

Police also thanked members of the public who acted quickly to help the woman and support her children during the emergency. The incident comes as local authorities continue to urge caution when using parks and wooded trails during periods of high winds and storm activity.