A tragic incident unfolded in a California park when a four-year-old boy lost his life after a eucalyptus branch fell on him while his father watched helplessly. The boy’s family has since filed a wrongful death lawsuit, claiming that the trees in the park have been in a dangerous state for years.
The young boy, Ronan Kerr, was playing in Villa La Jolla Park in San Diego in June when a large piece of a eucalyptus tree fell on him. The incident was witnessed by his father, Cathal Kerr, and his seven-year-old brother, Charles. The lawsuit reveals that the branch, measuring 34 feet, fell from a height of 60 feet. Cathal Kerr attempted to save his sons but was unable to reach Ronan in time.
The impact of the falling branch resulted in severe injuries to both Ronan and his father. Ronan succumbed to his injuries after a week in the hospital. Cathal Kerr sustained a traumatic brain injury, facial lacerations, and broken bones.
The lawsuit, filed against the city of San Diego and two city contractors responsible for tree maintenance, alleges that the branch that hit Ronan was visibly unhealthy and decayed. The suit further claims that the tree’s branches were large, heavy, and improperly maintained, making it evident to a trained eye that the tree was at risk of catastrophic failure.
The lawsuit also points out that there have been at least 30 instances since 1983 where branches from eucalyptus trees or other trees have fallen dangerously, including in Villa La Jolla park. In 1983, a similar incident resulted in the death of a four-year-old at the entrance to the San Diego Zoo. In 2013, a pregnant woman and a man were injured by a fallen tree at the UC San Diego campus.
The lawsuit alleges that the eucalyptus trees in San Diego parks pose significant dangers to the public and that the city’s inspection and maintenance protocols are grossly inadequate. The suit seeks the removal or management of all eucalyptus trees deemed a danger to the public in parks and school yards. It also demands timely tree inspections and public posting of tree inspections and risk assessments by the city.
Ronan Kerr was remembered by his family as a “lover” and a “tender soul.” His obituary described him as a bright light full of heart, humor, and boundless curiosity. His family was his world, and he took great pride in being helpful.
Representatives for the Kerr family and the city of San Diego have yet to comment on the lawsuit.