Person critically injured in falling tree incident on Portland’s west side

A person was critically injured Tuesday afternoon after being struck by a falling tree on Portland’s west side, according to KATU and Portland Fire and Rescue.

Firefighters were called to the 6300 block of NW Thompson Road, near NW Skyline Boulevard, around 3:15 p.m. for a report that a tree had fallen on a person. KATU reported that Life Flight was initially requested, then canceled.

Portland Fire and Rescue’s Technical Rescue Team responded to the scene. Crews used a low-angle rope system to bring the injured person back up to the roadway. KATU reported that thick vegetation, brush, and the slope of the area made the rescue more difficult. The transfer from one rescue group to another took about an hour.

A preliminary Portland Fire and Rescue report said the person was struck by the falling tree, but not pinned under it, according to KATU. The injured person was taken to the hospital in critical condition and has not been identified.

Incidents like this can raise questions about property conditions, tree maintenance, and who controlled the work area. When a falling object or unsafe site causes serious harm, records from first responders, witnesses, and the property owner can matter later in a premises liability claim.