I always thought everyone knew that running for cover under a tree during a storm was a terrible idea, but apparently, this father and son didn't get the memo.
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During a golfing trip, Matthew Terrell Collins Sr., 58, and his son Mathew Terrell Collins Jr., 29, got caught in a storm. The two of them were playing a round at Bull Creek Course in Midland, Georgia, when the adverse weather took them by surprise.
Rather than head for shelter inside, they sat in their golf cart under a tree. The tree was toppled by the intense storm and crushed the golf cart with the father and son inside. They were both declared dead at the scene by the Columbus emergency services. They suffered blunt force and crushing trauma.
Fundraiser For Storm-Stricken Father And Son
Following their passing, the family started a GoFundMe to help raise money following their passing. The money drive is intended to help the widow with her funeral costs.
They intended to raise a total of $20,000 but have surpassed that and made over $22,000. The GoFundMe recalls the tragic moment the father and son were killed by the storm. "They were spending time together when the storm struck. Sharing a moment between father and son that would unknowingly become their last," the message says.
The fund-raiser goes on to give a brief eulogy for the son. "Matthew Jr. was a loyal friend, a kindhearted soul, and someone who always showed up for the people in his life. He shared a deep bond with his father, and losing both of them so suddenly is a devastating blow to everyone who knew and loved them."
It is always important to stay away from places like trees and poles during a heavy storm. They are not only susceptible to being blown over but also act as lightning rods. In the case of a storm, head for shelter. Buildings, or even walls, are better than hiding under trees. There have been a number of cases of people being struck by trees in the past.
