In a tragic incident on Tuesday afternoon, just after 3 PM, emergency services rushed to Station Road in Orpington following reports of a woman being critically injured under a fallen tree. The London Fire Brigade, along with London Air Ambulance doctors Paramedics from the London Ambulance Service and incident officers, were quickly on the scene to rescue the trapped woman.
The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was found beneath a large tree that had unexpectedly collapsed. That had been hit by the Storm Henk
The London Fire Brigade’s rapid response team worked diligently to free her. They employed specialised equipment and techniques to safely remove the tree without causing further injury.
Once extricated, the woman was found to have sustained serious head injuries. The London Air Ambulance’s medical team, including doctors and critical care paramedics, provided immediate on-site medical attention before she was airlifted to a nearby hospital. Her current condition remains serious, and she is receiving ongoing care.
The cause of the tree’s collapse is not immediately clear. Local authorities have cordoned off the area for a thorough investigation. Residents and commuters in the vicinity of Orpington Station Road are advised to seek alternative routes as investigative and cleanup efforts continue.
This incident has raised concerns among residents about the maintenance and safety of trees in public areas. Officials have assured the public that a full investigation will be conducted to determine the cause of the tree’s collapse and to implement measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
The community has rallied in support of the injured woman, with many offering messages of hope and wishes for a speedy recovery. The London Fire Brigade and London Air Ambulance have been commended for their swift and professional response to the emergency.
A spokesperson for Metropolitan Police said: “Police were called at 3.14pm on Tuesday, 2 January to reports that a woman had been struck by a tree in Station Approach, Orpington.
“Officers attended along with paramedics from the London Ambulance Service and the London Fire Brigade.
“The woman was taken to hospital and her family has been informed.”
