85-Year-Old Man Killed by Falling Tree in Ozone Park During Storms

NEW YORK — An 85-year-old man was tragically killed by a falling tree in Ozone Park on Tuesday evening, as severe storms swept through Queens, bringing down branches and power lines across the borough. NYPD officers responded to the grim scene at approximately 7:30 PM, confirming the victim's death upon arrival.

The incident occurred on 107th Street, just a few blocks east of Cross Bay Boulevard, amidst peak storm activity. Emergency services had initially received multiple calls about downed trees and structural damage throughout the area, overwhelming local response capabilities.

Unforeseen Impact of Sudden Gusts

The National Weather Service had issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Queens earlier that day, predicting gusts up to 60 miles per hour. While such warnings are common, the specific intensity of the wind proved catastrophic in this instance, particularly for older trees.

Investigators from the NYPD’s 106th Precinct determined that the victim, identified as Arthur Jenkins, was walking near his residence when a large oak tree limb detached and struck him. Medical personnel pronounced him dead at the scene.

“This was a freak accident, a true tragedy,” stated Lieutenant Sarah Chen of the 106th Precinct on Wednesday morning. “Our deepest condolences go out to the family of Mr. Jenkins. We urge residents to heed weather warnings and stay indoors during severe conditions.” She emphasized the suddenness of the event.

Widespread Storm Damage Across Queens

The fatal incident was one of many widespread damage reports throughout Queens, affecting areas from Ozone Park to Howard Beach and beyond. Con Edison reported over 15,000 power outages across the borough by midnight, with many concentrated along the Cross Bay Boulevard corridor.

Cleanup crews from the Department of Sanitation and NYC Parks were deployed overnight to clear dozens of fallen trees and branches. Major arteries, including sections of Cross Bay Boulevard, experienced temporary closures due to debris and downed wires, disrupting late-night commutes.

“Our teams worked tirelessly through the night to restore power and clear hazards,” a Con Edison spokesperson told ABC7 New York on May 18, 2026. “The sheer volume of damage speaks to the storm’s intensity. Safety is our top priority for current outage maps, check here."

Call for Tree Inspections and Public Safety

The incident has renewed calls from local residents and community leaders for increased tree inspections, especially for older, larger trees located near public sidewalks and residential properties. Concerns have been raised previously about the city’s tree maintenance budget.

Council Member Ariola, whose district includes Ozone Park, announced plans to advocate for enhanced proactive tree care programs. She highlighted the need for regular assessments of tree health, particularly in densely populated areas and along frequently used pedestrian routes like those surrounding Cross Bay Boulevard.

“We must ensure our public spaces are safe,” Ariola stated in a press release. “One life lost to a preventable incident is one too many. We need to invest more in maintaining our urban canopy.” She plans to introduce legislation seeking more frequent assessments.

Community Response and Support

The Ozone Park community is grappling with the sudden loss of Arthur Jenkins, described by neighbors as a beloved, active member of the neighborhood. Local churches and community centers are offering support services to his family and those affected by the storm.

Neighbors expressed shock and sadness over the incident, noting Mr. Jenkins was often seen walking in the evenings. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable dangers posed by severe weather, even in familiar surroundings.

“He was such a sweet man, always with a smile,” remarked Sarah Thompson, who lived next door to Mr. Jenkins for decades. “It’s just heartbreaking.” The community is planning a memorial service later in the week.

Future Preparedness Measures

City agencies are reviewing their emergency response protocols in light of the widespread storm damage and the tragic fatality. Discussions are underway to improve real-time communication with residents during severe weather events and to optimize debris removal operations.

The Department of Emergency Management is also planning public awareness campaigns for summer 2026, focusing on preparedness for high winds and flash floods. These efforts underscore a commitment to minimizing risk for vulnerable populations.

Ensuring the safety of residents during increasingly unpredictable weather patterns remains a critical challenge for urban planners and emergency services, particularly in areas with a mix of dense housing and large, mature trees.

Frequently Asked Questions about Storm Fatalities and Safety

What happened in Ozone Park during the recent storms? An 85-year-old man, Arthur Jenkins, was tragically killed by a falling tree limb on 107th Street in Ozone Park as severe thunderstorms brought high winds to Queens. NYPD officers confirmed his death at the scene.

How did the storm impact areas near Cross Bay Boulevard? The storms caused widespread power outages, with over 15,000 homes affected, many along the Cross Bay Boulevard corridor. Sections of the boulevard also experienced temporary closures due to fallen trees and debris, disrupting traffic.

Are there calls for increased tree maintenance following this incident? Yes, local residents and Council Member Ariola are advocating for increased city investment in proactive tree inspections and maintenance programs. The goal is to identify and address hazardous trees, especially in pedestrian-heavy areas, to prevent future tragedies.