HARIANEXPRESS – A motorcyclist from Blitar sustained serious injuries and his vehicle suffered heavy damage after being struck by a suddenly breaking banyan tree branch. The incident occurred on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, while he was passing through the Aloon-aloon Kota Blitar area.
The victim, identified as Imam Mustofa (37), a resident of Talun District, Blitar Regency, was immediately rushed to the hospital for medical attention.
Unexpected Collapse Injures Rider in Blitar
The unfortunate event unfolded as Imam Mustofa was riding his motorcycle alone, traveling from east to west. Without warning, a large branch from a banyan tree snapped and fell, impacting both him and his motorcycle.
Witnesses and emergency personnel quickly responded to the scene, providing immediate assistance to the injured rider. They worked together to evacuate the victim to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
Investigation into the Cause
Boris Riki, a duty officer from the Blitar Regency Fire Department, commented on the incident. He stated that there were no strong winds at the time, suggesting the branch likely broke due to its already fragile condition.
“We were on duty inside the office when we suddenly heard a loud sound of a tree falling. When we ran outside, it turned out that a motorcyclist from east to west had been hit by a tree branch; the weather at the time had no strong winds, so it is suspected that the branch was already fragile,” said Boris.
According to Boris, Imam Mustofa remained conscious during the evacuation process. However, he was still transported to the hospital to ensure there were no other serious injuries.
Ongoing Checks and Public Safety Concerns
Authorities and related agencies are currently conducting a comprehensive inspection of other large trees in the Aloon-aloon Kota Blitar area. This proactive measure aims to prevent similar incidents that could endanger residents passing through or engaging in activities there.
As of the latest report, the victim is still receiving medical care to confirm no hidden injuries were overlooked following the accident. The incident serves as a crucial reminder about the importance of regular inspection and pruning of old trees in public spaces, ensuring collective safety.
