ANTIOCH, Tenn. (WTVF) — A 15-year-old camper died Monday after an unstable tree fell and struck him during a group hike at YMCA Camp Widjiwagan, according to Metro Nashville police.
Authorities identified the teenager as Camden Robert Callihan. Investigators are calling his death a tragic accident.
Police said two counselors were leading campers along a trail when the group came across a fallen tree that was leaning against another tree. The counselors warned campers not to touch the unstable tree as they passed underneath it.
Investigators said a 14-year-old camper who was walking beside Camden touched the tree in a pull-up motion, causing it to fall and strike Camden.
Counselors and campers worked together to lift the tree off Camden as lifeguards and emergency crews responded, according to police.
Camden was taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead around 11 a.m. A chaplain notified Camden's parents.
No other campers or counselors were injured. Police said the death is classified as accidental.
The YMCA of Middle Tennessee released the following statement:
“Earlier today a tragic and fatal injury occurred during Teen Extreme Camp at Camp Widjiwagan when a tree hit a camper during a group hike in the woods. Emergency protocols were activated, and the camper was transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, but sadly, the camper did not survive their injuries.
There are no words to adequately express the depths of our grief for this tragic loss. At this time, we ask that you keep the victim’s family, other campers and the staff and emergency personnel who responded in your thoughts and prayers.
A team is on site at Camp Widjiwagan to support campers and staff who were involved in the incident and emergency response efforts. Our focus at this time is caring for those impacted by the incident.”
Kelsey Gibbs brings us a powerful story of humanity, compassion, and love in action while showing us the hard and lifesaving work our officers do daily. Nashville is lucky to have people like Lt. Hotz wearing the badge.
- Carrie Sharp
