Yet another

[Cannibal]

Another story about a widow-maker living up to its name.
Teen Dies on Camping Trip

Take the few seconds to evaluate your chosen hanging spot. It's worth the time every time.

[grampa]

Tragic story, indeed!

But so many important details left out:

What kind of tree? Alive or dead?

Branch: alive or dead? Rotten in the middle or sound?

Any wind to precipitate the fall?

Was anything attached to the branch, any extra weight?


Hangers want to know!

[Cranky Bear]

Sad story, my heart-felt condolences go out to his family and friends!

[BillyBob58]

Maybe you can evaluate the trees which are nearby, and at least you can spot the obvious dangers. But is there any way to evaluate a tree branch high in a tree, which is about to snap off?

[Cannibal]

But is there any way to evaluate a tree branch high in a tree, which is about to snap off?

Sadly, I think that issue boils down to "when your number is up".
But, it might be wise to not camp under a tree branch that looks to weigh 2,000 lbs.

[Can't Wait]

Ya 2000 lbs is one heck of a branch such a tragic story

[Knotty]

Very sad. Being completely clear of widow makers can be near impossible sometimes so you just do your best. At MAHHA this weekend JayS and I were setting up when we saw a tall dead tree snap at the base and come crashing down. Fortunately it was out of range. Looking around the hang, I noticed most people stayed clear of dead trees but even some very experienced hangers were under live trees with a single, large, dead branch above.

[Lonely Raven]

I heard about this on the radio today...the kid lives only a few miles from me.

Sad really, but yes, I agree, that sometimes no matter how careful you are...

[ringtail-THFKAfood]

If the branch was almost a ton then what was the diameter of the trunk? My straps would not go around a big tree.

Once all the facts are known maybe there will be a useful lesson.

[lazy river road]

What a heart renching story, my condolences go out to the young mans entire family and his school community. As a teacher myself I cant even imagine what an impact this is having on the school community. Lets all just be as careful as we can.