Tree Removal Crew Member Killed By Large Oak Branch

Ormond Beach police are investigating an accidental death in which they say a tree removal crew member was struck and killed by a large tree branch. Robert Smith, 40, died while working with a tree removal crew in the 300 block of River Bluff Drive on Thursday morning, according to police. Police said the crew was working to remove a palm tree when the palm tree leaned on a branch of an old oak tree. The oak tree branch snapped under the weight of the palm tree and struck Smith, causing fatal injuries, according to a news release.