A 26-year-old woman and her 5-month-old baby were killed on July 31 after a tree fell on them at a campground in British Columbia, according to authorities.
First responders arrived at Cumberland Lake Park Campground, located near Comox Lake, following reports of the incident, the Comox Valley RCMP said in a press release.
“Despite the efforts of first responders, the young mother passed away at the scene,” police said. “The infant was transported to the hospital but sadly did not survive.”
Authorities expressed condolences to the victims’ loved ones and thanked bystanders who “stepped in to help under heartbreaking circumstances.” Police added that foul play is not suspected, though the investigation is ongoing.
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Cumberland Deputy Fire Chief Stephane Dionne told Global News the tree measured about 10 to 15 inches in diameter and was roughly 65 feet away in a wooded area. “The odds of seeing that is slim,” he said of the rare and tragic event.
In a statement to Global News, the victims’ family invited community members to gather at Comox Marine Park on Sunday, Aug. 10, to honor Lynae and Elias. They encouraged attendees to “share in the love that Lynae and Elias brought to this earth and to thank the community for their support,” adding their gratitude to first responders and passersby “who tried to save our beautiful babies who we know are safe in the arms of Jesus.”
A campground spokesperson told Global News they are unsure why the tree fell, though it appeared to be dead. It has since been removed.
The BC Coroner’s Service confirmed to PEOPLE that “investigations into these deaths remain open.”
