Two Hikers Killed by Falling Tree on Olympic National Forest Trail
According to a local report, tragedy struck in Washington state’s Olympic National Forest as two hikers lost their lives when a tree fell on a popular trail last week.
Christine Mutchler, 70, Kathy Pickard, 76, and Kathy Todd, 74, were on a hike to Lena Lake when a part of a dead fir tree broke off and fell onto the trail, as recounted by Todd in an interview with the Kitsap Sun.
“We heard a big crack that I’ll never forget,” Todd recalled. “I ran as fast as I could, and I’m sure they did too.”
Upon turning around, Todd discovered Mutchler and Pickard unconscious on the trail, surrounded by pieces of the fallen tree.
Todd, who escaped unharmed, rushed to a nearby clearing to call 911 for assistance.
An emergency helicopter from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island arrived shortly after and airlifted Mutchler to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, where she tragically passed away before reaching the hospital.
Meanwhile, the ER doctors assisted Todd to safety, while other hikers stayed with Pickard’s body until a rescue team could arrive.
Friends of the victims described them as a close-knit group who enjoyed outdoor activities together, such as hiking and skiing trips.
“They were the back-of-the-bus crowd,” said Sarah Rogers. “Absolutely a light. Happy, active, energetic and fun. Always out for a good time, in the best way.”
