1 person killed in storm when tree falls on car on East Cypresswood, deputies say

SPRING, Texas (KTRK) — Storms pushing into the Houston area led to at least one death on Monday, according to the Harris County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office.

Capt. Jonathan Zitzmann, of Precinct 4, said a woman was traveling westbound on East Cypresswood at Whitewood when a large oak tree came crashing down at about 6:30 p.m. The tree fell on her car, blocking both lanes.

Severe weather was moving through the area. Neighbors in the North Hill Estates neighborhood near I-45 North told there were high winds and heavy rain followed by hail.

“I told my wife it feels like there was a tornado,” neighbor Hever Capote said. “It’s truly a tragedy. One second, you’re coming down the road. The next second, you’re gone.”

Zitzmann said the woman was the only person in the car.

“A tree fell on a vehicle. Vehicle is occupied. Someone is crushed,” a first responder can be heard reporting on Rangecast audio. “It appears to be someone in this vehicle. I can’t get inside to see it. Need some heavy equipment.”

She died at the scene and has not been identified. Constable deputies are not sure whether she was stopped at the light or in motion at the time.

“This is not something we could have predicted, she could have predicted. Our hearts break for her and her family,” Zitzmann said.

Crews cleaning the area had to cut the tree in order to dispose of it. The intersection reopened Tuesday morning.

More rain is expected in Tuesday’s forecast so drivers are urged to stay prepared.