Florida woman killed by falling tree during Hurricane Isaias landfall
An Escambia County woman died after a falling tree struck her home during Hurricane Isaias, Florida's first confirmed storm fatality, officials say.
A fallen tree killed an unnamed woman in Escambia County during severe Panhandle storm winds Friday night. The death is the first confirmed storm-related fatality in Florida. Rescue teams responded to a private residence on Flagler Drive.
Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons confirmed the storm-related fatality on Saturday morning. The agency received an emergency call regarding an impacted structure. Units deployed to the scene immediately.
Fire rescue crews reached the victim at around 8:48 p.m. on Friday. This happened shortly after the storm reached the Panhandle. She was inside the home.
A large tree pinned the woman down. Rescue workers found her trapped. ECSO said she was unresponsive and lacked a pulse.
Governor Ron DeSantis addressed reporters during a press conference earlier that day. DeSantis said he had heard reports about a possible fatality. The governor noted the death was not confirmed at that time.
County emergency crews handle fallen trees and structural damage following severe storms. Local deputies secure properties during disaster recovery operations in Escambia County.
The incident remains under standard local review.
