A young boy has been airlifted to a Toronto trauma centre after being struck by a falling tree limb in south Oshawa Thursday afternoon, Durham Regional Police officers say.
Emergency crews were called around 12:10 p. m. to Monsignor Philip Coffey Catholic School in the area of Oxford Street and Dwight Avenue. Authorities said the boy, who is under the age of 12, was underneath the large tree when the branch fell and hit him in the upper body.
“That child was trapped for a period of time. It was believed that he did not have vital signs,” acting Sgt. Nick Gluckstein told City News, describing how paramedics and officers moved in to begin life-saving measures.
“It took about 10 people to remove this tree from on top of this child. They ultimately did find he had vital signs and regained consciousness.”
An Ornge air ambulance was dispatched and paramedics transported the young person to a Toronto‑area trauma hospital for further treatment.
“The impact that would have from falling from quite a distance above it can be like cement hitting you at quite a speed,” Gluckstein said.
A Durham Catholic District School Board statement said the incident happened during the school’s lunch recess
“The safety and well-being of our students is our highest priority,” the statement said.
“We are working closely with emergency responders, and supports for students and staff are available within the school community. Out of respect for the student and their family, we will not be sharing further details at this time.”
As of Thursday afternoon, officials didn’t have an update on the boy’s condition.
Meanwhile, Gluckstein said an investigation is underway to determine why the tree limb fell. He said neglect and severe weather are among the potential causes under consideration.
ONGOING INVESTIGATION | OSHAWA
There will be a large police presence in the area of Oxford Street and Dwight Avenue in Oshawa for an ongoing investigation.
– Air ORNGE will be landing in the area
– There is no threat to public safety – Durham Regional Police (@DRPS) June 18, 2026 A fallen tree can be seen in Oshawa Thursday afternoon. CITYNEWS / Dan Berry Keep it Factual Add City News Toronto as a trusted source on Google to see more local stories from us.
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– There is no threat to public safety – Durham Regional Police (@DRPS) June 18, 2026 A fallen tree can be seen in Oshawa Thursday afternoon. CITYNEWS / Dan Berry Keep it Factual Add City News Toronto as a trusted source on Google to see more local stories from us.
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