Grandfather killed when tree branch falls on him during walk with grandson

GENEVA, Ala. (WTVY/Gray News) - An Alabama grandfather was killed when a large tree limb fell on him as he walked through his yard with his grandson, officials say.

Melvin T. Dixon, 68, was pronounced dead after an oak limb fell on him around 4:30 p.m. Tuesday. The grandfather had been walking through his yard with his young grandson in the Fadette community, Geneva County Coroner Donny Adkinson said.

The coroner said Dixon was pinned beneath the tree limb after it fell. A neighbor used a jack to lift the limb off the 68-year-old, and family members also helped.

“Despite their immediate and courageous efforts, Mr. Dixon was pronounced dead at the scene,” said Adkinson in a statement.

The coroner asked for prayers for Dixon’s family.

“This tragic accident serves as a reminder of how quickly life can change. Family, friends, neighbors, and first responders were left shocked by the sudden and random nature of this heartbreaking incident,” he said.