SILVER LAKE, N.Y. (WKBW) — One person is dead and another person is injured after a tree crashed through an Airbnb in the hamlet of Silver Lake.
The tree fell as a couple was outside the Airbnb on Thompson Avenue loading their car, according to the Wyoming County Sheriff's Office. Emergency crews were able to get them out with the help of neighbors.
"This is insane," said one neighbor Amy Ginnetti-Johnson. "The car was completely crushed. The house is completely cut in half."
The sheriff's office said 77-year-old David Denham of West Winfield was taken to the Wyoming County Community Hospital where he later died and 77-year-old Linda Denham of West Winfield was taken by Mercy Flight to Strong Memorial Hospital for further treatment.
"The female was found behind the vehicle that's under the tree, under the tree limbs," said Wyoming County Sheriff's Captain Edward Till. "The male subject was located under debris from the house on the far left corner."
The sheriff's office confirmed that four cars were also damaged. NYSEG and RGE worked with local towns and villages to help clear the road and restore power to the neighborhood.
An Airbnb spokesperson sent 7 News the following statement:
"Our hearts go out to the loved ones of the victims of this tragedy. Our team is reaching out to those impacted to offer our support."
There is no word yet on what caused the tree to fall. Storms passed by the area Friday morning but it remains unclear if this is weather related.
