Falling Tree Kills East Orange Man During NJ Storm: Officials

EAST ORANGE, NJ — An East Orange man died after a tree fell on him during a barbecue on Wednesday evening, authorities say.

Juan José Angeles Lopez, 30, was killed when a tree crashed down in his backyard during a storm. The incident took place on the 100-block of North Munn Avenue around 8 p.m., a city spokesperson said.

As the winds intensified from the storm, Lopez attempted to secure an outdoor umbrella when a tree located nearby on the 300-block of William Street collapsed on him., authorities said.

Lopez was found unresponsive at the scene. Emergency responders transported him to CareWell Health Medical Center in East Orange; he was pronounced dead at 9:05 p.m.

The deceased man left behind a wife, daughter and unborn child, according to an online fundraiser, which is raising money to assist his family in their time of need. Learn more or make a donation here.

“This is heart wrenching, and as a community, we are going to do whatever we can to help Mr. Lopez’ wife and family during this difficult time,” Mayor Ted Green said.

The City of East Orange is accepting clothing, baby items and other donations for the family and children. Donations may be dropped off at any East Orange firehouse 24 hours a day, or at the Department of Health and Human Services, 143 New Street, East Orange, NJ 07017, between
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 a.m., Monday through Friday. Donors should designate all items "in care of The Lopez Family."

Wednesday’s storm left more than 100,000 New Jersey homes and businesses without power, closed roads and downed trees in several municipalities. See Related: Power Outages, Downed Trees, Road Closures (See NJ Storm Aftermath)

Wednesday’s tragic incident wasn’t the first time in recent history that a falling tree has claimed a life in Essex County.

In April, an uprooted tree fell on a Verona resident and his infant grandson in their backyard, killing them both and leaving the community in mourning. See Related: Infant, Grandfather Killed By Falling Tree In NJ Backyard

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