Crime & Safety
Investigation into Nina MacKay's Death by Fallen Tree Closes
The recently-completed investigation offered new information into the unusual fatality, according to the Sun Current.
After a three-month long investigation, officials have determined the fallen basswood tree that killed Eden Prairie's Nina Mackay was indeed rotting on the inside.
According to the Sun Current, the recently-completed investigation offered new information, including the condition of the tree and more testimonies from key witnesses.
As previously reported by Patch, at 5:20 p.m. on Friday, July 5, a 911 call came into Eden Prairie Police dispatch that a very large tree had fallen and a woman was screaming. The incident occurred on a city trail on George Moran Drive in Miller Park. MacKay was pinned under the old tree and was pronounced dead at the scene.
At first glance, the tree appeared to be healthy, but upon further investigation signs of decay around the base of the tree were found.
Fonda Broekhuis, a friend and neighbor of Mackay, was out with Mackay and her two dogs on a walk when the incident happened, the Sun Current reported. Both heard a loud cracking sound, but thought it was just fireworks.
Broekhuis then saw the tree falling from the corner of her eye, the Sun Current article said. She was struck be several branches as the tree fell. After the fall, Broekhuis saw MacKay pinned under the tree, appearing deceased.
Mackay was actively involved in the Eden Prairie community. She had been a dedicated city commission member for several years. MacKay will be deeply missed and the city sends its deepest condolences to the MacKay family and friends, the city said in a statement following the incident.
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