Four individuals tragically lost their lives when trees toppled onto them at the bustling Jattu market in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
The incident occurred after heavy rainfall on the morning of Monday, July 8, 2024, leaving several others injured, including traders and shoppers.
Local Government Chairman Marvellous Zibiri confirmed the incident during a media briefing at the market.
He said: “Between 8 am and 9 am on Monday, I got a call from my vice chairman and the Supervisory Councillor for Environment about the incident that happened at the Jattu Market.
“During the rainfall, four trees in the market fell at the same time while people took cover under the trees, thereby killing four persons and injuring many others. So far, we have been able to recover four bodies, and we have taken them to the mortuary while those who sustained injuries are at the hospital responding to treatment.”
The chairman also mentioned that rescue efforts were underway at the site, where teams were cutting the trees into sections to ensure there were no additional casualties beneath them.
Zibiri characterized the event as a tragic occurrence and extended his condolences to the families affected by the loss of their loved ones. He urged residents of the local government area to remain indoors during rainy weather to ensure their safety.
