Burgess, United States - September 27, 2024

A dramatic scene unfolded early on September 27th when a large tree, succumbing to the pressures of recent storms, crashed onto a single-level residence in the Laguna Point area of the Burgess community. Horry County Fire Rescue was swiftly dispatched at 8:07 a.m. to manage what was initially reported as a building collapse, which turned out to be the result of a tree fall.

Eyewitnesses described a moment of chaos as the tree, likely weakened by Hurricane Helene's passage through the region, broke off and plummeted onto the home, causing extensive damage to the roof and structure. The resident, fortunately, escaped unharmed, a small but significant mercy in what could have been a tragic incident.

"Upon arrival, our crews found that a significant portion of the residence had been compromised by the tree," stated a spokesperson for Horry County Fire Rescue. "Our primary concern was ensuring the safety of the occupant and securing the scene."

The incident, thankfully, did not result in any injuries, a fact that has been attributed to the swift response of the fire rescue teams and the fortunate timing of the event. The resident was at home during the collapse but was in a part of the house not directly impacted by the falling tree.