Nine-year-old Luna May Anderson was fatally injured on Sunday, October 29, 2023, after a palm tree collapsed on her while she was playing on an obstacle course in the Smith Farm housing community in Lake Worth, Florida. The incident occurred along Hagen Ranch and Hypoluxo Roads and has spurred an ongoing investigation by local authorities.
The young girl was playing with two friends, including an eight-year-old boy, on an obstacle course strap attached between two large palm trees. Unexpectedly, one of the palm trees fell, landing on the children. All three were injured, with two transported to local medical facilities for treatment.
Anderson was pronounced dead upon arrival at Delray Medical Center. The eight-year-old boy was reported to be in stable condition. The identities of the two injured children, as well as the extent of their injuries, have not been disclosed.
The aftermath of the event has deeply impacted the community. Anderson was a Coral Reef Elementary School student in Lake Worth. The school’s administration notified parents about the off-campus incident and took steps to provide support. Grief counselors were made available to assist students and staff in processing the loss and coping with the emotional toll.
Early findings from the investigation suggest that the tree, despite appearing externally healthy, had some internal rot. This could have compromised its structural integrity, leading to its unexpected fall. While the investigation is still in progress, authorities believe the incident to be accidental and do not suspect any criminal intent.