Overview

• On July 23 at Renziehausen Park in McKeesport, multiple branches from a mature tree unexpectedly fell and struck 49-year-old Gendie Miller as she supported her daughter at the Western Pa. College Showcase, leading to her death.
• Park officials with McKeesport authorities have launched an examination of the tree’s health and maintenance records to determine if neglect contributed to its failure.
• A GoFundMe campaign created by family friends has raised over $48,000 as of July 28 to assist the Miller family with sudden expenses.
• Mayor Michael Cherepko released a statement offering condolences to Miller’s husband and daughter and stressing the city’s commitment to community safety measures.
• The incident has drawn scrutiny to the stability of aging trees at public sports events and spurred calls for enhanced vegetation inspections at regional parks.