DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur — A Grade 6 student died while his female classmate was injured after a coconut tree suddenly toppled onto their bicycle in Barangay Cogon, Punta Biao, Digos City, on Sunday afternoon, October 11, 2026.
Initial reports said the two students were on their way to work on a school project when the towering coconut tree unexpectedly fell across the road, striking them as they passed through the area.
The male student, who was reportedly driving the bicycle, sustained fatal head injuries and died at the scene. His female classmate, who was riding with him, suffered a broken bone and was taken for medical treatment.
The incident was reportedly captured on video and circulated on social media. A video shared by Facebook user Arjun Castro showed the aftermath of the incident, drawing attention to the danger posed by the fallen tree.
Residents reportedly said that the tall coconut trees in the area had long been a source of concern because of the potential risk they posed to people using the road. Reports further indicated that complaints had previously been raised about the trees, but no action to cut them down had reportedly been taken before the fatal incident.
The circumstances surrounding the tree’s collapse, including whether its condition had been assessed before the incident, remain unclear based on the initial information available.
The tragedy has raised concerns over public safety and the need to address potentially hazardous trees along roads and other areas frequently used by pedestrians and motorists. The incident also underscores the importance of responding promptly to community complaints involving hazards that could threaten lives.
Further information from authorities regarding the incident, the identities of those involved, and any investigation into the reported complaints remains pending.