Douglas Pendleton Obituary, Death Cause – Authorities in South Bend have released the identity of a man who died after being struck by a falling tree limb on Friday evening. The victim has been identified as 77-year-old Douglas Pendleton of Indianapolis. The incident occurred in the 600 block of W. Washington Street, directly in front of the historic Tippecanoe Place.
Emergency responders were called to the scene around 8 p.m. after reports of an accident involving a fallen tree limb. When officers and medics arrived, they discovered both Pendleton and his wife had been injured. Tragically, Pendleton died from his injuries at the scene. His wife, who was also hurt in the incident, is expected to make a full recovery, according to officials.
The St. Joseph County Coroner’s Office later confirmed that the death was accidental and formally closed the investigation. No foul play or suspicious circumstances were found in connection with the incident.
Details about what caused the limb to fall have not been released, but no further danger was reported in the area. The community expressed shock over the sudden and unusual accident, particularly given the location in front of a well-known historic site.
The South Bend Police Department has not released any additional information at this time. Pendleton’s death is being mourned by his family, who are now coping with an unexpected tragedy that occurred during what may have been a casual evening outing.
Local officials have not indicated whether the city will inspect other trees in the area for safety concerns, but incidents like this often prompt reviews of public tree maintenance policies.
As the investigation is now considered closed, the focus turns to supporting the Pendleton family as they grieve and recover from the incident.
