Motorist killed by falling tree as Storm Eunice claims first UK casualty

A man has died after being hit by a falling tree today while traveling in a car.

The passenger was in his 20s.

The tragic incident happened just before midday in the market town of Alton in East Hampshire as strong winds hit from Storm Eunice, The Mirror reports.

read moreBBC Breakfast under fire as Storm Eunice coverage angers viewers

The driver of the vehicle, also in his 20s, suffered serious injuries. He has been taken to the hospital.

In a statement Hampshire Constabulary said: “Police were called at 11.49am on Friday to a collision involving a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter pick-up and a tree in Old Odiham Road.

“Officers attended the incident with colleagues from Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service and South Central Ambulance Service.

“Two men, in their 20s, were in the vehicle. Sadly the passenger was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver has been taken to Southampton General Hospital with serious injuries.

“The next of kin for both men have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

“Officers are investigating the exact circumstances of the incident.”

It comes after police confirmed a man in his 60s had died in Co Wexford in Ireland after being struck by a falling tree.

The man, an employee of Wexford County Council, had been attending the scene of a fallen tree in the north Wexford area.

A spokesperson for the council expressed “deep regret and sadness” at the news.

He said: “The employee’s family, An Garda Siochana and the Health and Safety Authority have been informed.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the employee’s family, work colleagues and friends at this very difficult time.”

A post-mortem examination is expected to take place at Waterford University Hospital.

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