LINCOLN COUNTY, N.C. — A family says a mother’s warning helped save their lives when a tree suddenly crashed through their home last week, sparking a fire and leaving the house badly damaged.
The family said there were no storms or strong winds when the tree came down.
Viola Parker said she first heard a loud cracking sound and initially thought her son was outside shooting. She soon realized the noise was coming from the tree and yelled to warn her family.
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Her husband, Robert Parker, said he had been praying when he heard her shout. He was only a few feet from where the tree fell.
Their son, Matthew Parker, was in another room and said the tree could have killed him if he had been sitting in a chair or lying in bed.
The impact also started a fire on the stove. Viola was injured and trapped inside as the family tried to help one another escape.
Robert managed to find a phone and call 911. He said he feared his wife would be trapped in the burning home.
Firefighters arrived and put out the fire before helping the family to safety.
The home was left in ruins. Viola is still receiving medical care, but the family says they are grateful to have survived.
“100% a miracle,” Robert said.
Firefighters said there was no wind or storm at the time and that the cause of the tree falling remains unknown.