NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
An Indian-American mother was killed by a falling tree during a hiking trip with her 17-year-old son and the Boy Scouts in Cupertino, California on Sunday.
The 44-year-old woman has been identified as Vidyut Nautiyal, according to Santa Clara County’s coroner’s office.
The incident happened at around 10 a.m. Sunday at Rancho San Antonio County Park, according to the Santa Clara County Fire Department.
According to local reports, volunteers tried to lift the fallen tree off Nautiyal, but were unable to do so. She was declared dead on the scene by firefighters.
Her 17-year-old son refused to leave her side until firefighters arrived.
A statement by Eric Tarbox, Scouts executive/CEO, Silicon Valley Monterey Bay Council of Boy Scouts of America was sent out just a few hours after the incident:
“We are saddened to confirm one adult accidental fatality involving a tree. The deceased is the parent of a Scout and they were participating in a planned hike at the Rancho San Antonio Park.
Rangers and EMS were summoned to the scene. We will continue to cooperate with investigating authorities.
All Scouts are safe and there were no additional injuries. Our emergency response protocols and notifications are currently being followed and we appreciate privacy for the family and Scout unit as they are still being moved from the area and rejoined with their families.”
