A tragic incident unfolded Saturday at a Halloween-themed fall market in Pierce County when a large tree collapsed, resulting in one fatality and several injuries. According to the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO), the event, known as the “Haunted Witches Market,” was taking place at McKenna Park in Roy when the tree cracked and fell around 1 p.m., landing on vendor tents and trapping attendees beneath it.
The deceased was identified as a 31-year-old man from Eatonville, who was at the market with his girlfriend. Approximately 40 to 80 people were present at the time, many of them families. First responders encountered challenges due to the park’s remote location, complicating the assessment and treatment of the injured. In total, three individuals were transported to a hospital, while three others received on-site medical attention, with injuries varying from serious to minor.
The ‘Haunted Witches Market’ was a Halloween-themed fall market. It featured various vendors and activities related to Halloween, likely showcasing seasonal products, crafts, and festive decorations, creating a spooky atmosphere appropriate for the holiday. The fallen tree extended into the parking lot, damaging around six vendor tents and scattering their poles in various directions. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic and terrifying in the moments following the tree’s collapse.
A Tacoma business owner recounted how a woman she had conversed with just before the incident became part of the frantic search for victims afterward. Despite suffering losses to their businesses and inventory, both she and another vendor expressed gratitude for the swift actions of paramedics, law enforcement, and firefighters, acknowledging that the situation could have been much worse.
These events aim to create a festive environment, allowing attendees to celebrate the season, shop for unique items, and enjoy time with family and friends in a fun, themed setting. The ‘Haunted Witches Market’ likely embodied these characteristics, making it a popular destination for those looking to get into the Halloween spirit.
