A Michigan father has sadly passed away after being struck by a tree limb whilst cleaning a road, as reported by People.
Doug Chmiel, a 43-year-old Department of Public Works supervisor in Huntington Woods, Michigan, was tragically hit by a tree limb on March 13. Chmiel was responding to emergency clean-up operations that were taking place in the wake of a severe windstorm.
The City of Huntington Woods announced the tragic passing in a news release. "While clearing the road for emergency vehicle access, he was struck by a falling limb. Emergency crews responded to the scene, and he was transported to Corewell Health William Beaumont Hospital", it read. "Tragically, Doug later passed away despite efforts by Huntington Woods Public Safety on scene and Corewell Health Staff."
The statement then finished, "This is a profound loss for the entire Huntington Woods staff and community... losing a colleague who was dedicated to their work and community is truly heartbreaking." The City of Huntington Woods also said that they will provide counseling and support to those affected, including staffers.
Further, Huntington Woods mayor Bob Paul said in an interview that it was a very unexpected occurrence. He recounted that the employees were on site helping to clean, and "the next thing they knew, he was on the ground with the branch on him".
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A GoFundMe Has Been Set Up For The Limb Victim
Michael Taylor, Chmiel's brother-in-law, has set up a GoFundMe for him. It states that Chmiel leaves behind a wife as well as three children. The money from the GoFundMe will be used to cover funeral and burial expenses. It will also be used to provide support for the family.
Taylor also spoke in an interview. He said, "I know his kids loved him, and they still do. They still want to see him and they're still asking for him sometimes."
According to the GoFundMe, Chmiel was a veteran, who had served in the Army National Guard. "Doug was the kind of man who showed up for everyone around him."
What a tragic accident. May Bob Chmiel rest in peace.
