Lucky escape for family as 50ft oak tree smashes into home

A family-of-five, including three children, had a lucky escape when a giant oak tree smashed down on their house.  

Horrified neighbours rushed to the scene in Poplars Close, Crawley, but miraculously nobody was hurt in home.

However, it’s feared the 50ft tall tree, weighing an estimated 40 tons, has caused tens of thousands of pounds damage.

The 50ft tall tree, weighing an estimated 40 tons, has caused tens of thousands of pounds damage

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service evacuated two neighbouring properties and tree surgeons and structural engineers were called to remove the oak and make sure the houses were safe

The giant tree crashed down on the roof and smashed upstairs bedrooms.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service evacuated two neighbouring properties and tree surgeons and structural engineers were called to remove the oak and make sure the houses were safe.

A fire service spokeswoman said ‘We were called to reports that a large oak tree had fallen on to a house at 12.30pm. On arrival it was clear it had caused severe damage.

‘There were no injuries but a family of five were displaced. 

‘Two neighbouring properties were also evacuated. The Red Cross was also requested to help.’ 

Tree surgeons chopping the giant oak tree to remove it safely from the house and neighbouring properties

The giant tree crashed down on the roof and smashed upstairs bedrooms. West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service evacuated two neighbouring properties and tree surgeons and structural engineers were called to remove the oak and make sure the houses were safe

A JCB tractor begins to clear up the broken trunk and branches from the 50ft oak tree