SAN MATEO, CA – A young boy’s life was narrowly saved after a massive tree unexpectedly toppled onto a parked truck, trapping the child inside in a harrowing incident that has left a San Mateo family shaken and seeking answers. The Montoya family was dealt a devastating blow when a giant tree fell on their vehicle Wednesday afternoon, pinning four-year-old Ethan Montoya inside.
Ethan’s father, Humberto Montoya, was nearby when the tree began to creak ominously. “I heard the tree snapping and looked up,” he said, describing the terrifying moment when the tree crushed his truck with his son inside. Humberto immediately sprang into action, attempting to push the heavy branches off himself before realizing his son was trapped. The steering wheel had lodged into Ethan’s legs, leaving him immobilized.
Nearby construction workers, hearing the child’s cries, rushed to the scene. They quickly utilized a forklift and strap to wrench open the mangled truck door, allowing Humberto and his friend to begin cutting the steering wheel to free Ethan. Emergency responders soon arrived, whisking Ethan to the hospital where doctors placed his leg in a cast and began assessing the need for surgery.
As Humberto recounted the incident, he could barely contain his tears. “Seeing my son in pain, unable to move his legs, was heart-wrenching,” he said. Despite the ordeal, Ethan showed remarkable bravery, his primary concern being his pet lizard’s safety.
The tree, identified as a valley oak, had been a concern for local residents. It was situated on a public sidewalk and had reportedly been causing the pavement to lift. The Montoya family, along with others, had previously alerted city officials to the tree’s deteriorating condition, raising questions about why preventive measures weren’t taken sooner.
San Mateo officials have yet to release a statement regarding the incident, stating only that they are gathering more information. In the meantime, the Montoya family hopes the city will take proactive steps to prevent similar incidents by inspecting and addressing potentially hazardous trees in the area.
Doctors have informed the family that it will be at least a week before they can determine whether Ethan will require surgery. As they navigate this uncertain path of recovery, the Montoyas are urging the city to act swiftly to ensure the safety of its residents.