CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The new year started with heartbreak for one Clarksville family, after strong storms caused a tree to land on the roof of their home.
Jessie Tinsley said his wife, 6-year-old daughter, 3-year-old son, and a nurse who cares for his son, were inside the home on Hickory Grove Blvd, around 1 p.m. Monday. They heard a loud noise, and the tree came crashing down on their roof. It landed on top of his daughter’s bedroom. He said no one was hurt.
“I am just thankful everyone is out, and we are safe and still together,” said Tinsley. “All the stuff can be replaced.”
Tinsley said he had just had the roof on his home replaced six months ago after another tree fell on it, but this time the house was determined to be a total loss. They have lived in the home for 8 years.
He wasn’t able to enter his home Tuesday, as he returned to the scene to survey the damage. He said neighbors have been stopping by to offer assistance, and the American Red Cross is helping the family. For the time being, they are staying with family.
“I’ve had random strangers and friends stop by all day,” said Tinsley. “They offered anything we need. Clarksville is a great community.”
The same storm also knocked a tree on the roof of a home on Tylertown Road in Montgomery County. No one was hurt.
The heavy rain also caused flooding and electrical issues along Riverfront Park, and closed the final night of the Christmas on the Cumberland. The popular walk-through light display features 2 million lights. However, parts of the walking path were flooded.
“I thought they would at least do the upper lights, so we could see something” said Margie Lopez, who came to see the light display with her family. “But, everything is dark. Maybe next year.”
Christmas on the Cumberland started Nov. 20 and ended Jan. 1.
A Flood Advisory remained in effect of the Cumberland River in Montgomery County. Water levels are still high, and additional rain is expected later this week.
