Massive tree splits Indianapolis house in 2 during severe thunderstorm
Aug 11, 2026
INDIANAPOLIS (WRTV) Storms swept through Indiana on Tuesday, downing a tree that split a north side home in two. No one was injured.Crews estimated the tree weighed 15,000 to 20,000 pounds. The trunk remains lodged in the home
at East 55th Street and Winthrop Avenue, causing devastating damage to the front of the structure. The owners said the fall destroyed their dining room, kitchen and living room.Neighbor Alex Arko, who lives a block away, said the crash happened around 2 p.m.It was a loud crash. It sounded like an energy boxes on top of the pole blowing, but this was different and it was loud, Arko said.Crews worked for 3 1/2 hours to remove the tree and its branches. The tree also struck a second home, but damage there was minor.Brett Coffey of Earthworks Outdoors Crew said, We're going to remove everything completely and then all of this right here, we'll put into this truck and it'll look like we've never been here besides the house being crushed.Police blocked the road for several hours as neighbors watched the cleanup. Residents said they are grateful no one was hurt. The homeowners said they have insurance and plans to rebuild.I just can't believe so much damage from one tree, Arko said.
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