A Franklin couple lost their lives Sunday night after a large tree fell onto their vehicle during severe storms along Carothers Parkway, according to law enforcement officials.
The victims were identified by the Tennessee Highway Patrol as Georgette Arena and Stephen Lindstrom.
According to the preliminary report from the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the couple was traveling south on Carothers Parkway when a large tree fell from the right side of the roadway and landed on their vehicle. The crash happened during a period of heavy rain, strong winds, and thunderstorms that moved through the area.
Witnesses said the tree was large, and emergency responders spent hours working to remove it from the vehicle. A nearby resident said she initially believed the loud sound was thunder before realizing first responders had arrived at the scene.
“I thought it was thunder,” neighbor Ms. Jackson said. “It was raining real hard. The next thing I know there were fire trucks, ambulance. I heard them really working to try to get them out.”
She later learned the couple did not survive.
Friends said Georgette and Stephen had been together for 10 years and shared a love for traveling and spending time with family. They were reportedly just moments away from reaching home when the tragic accident occurred. Loved ones said the couple had been planning a family trip in the coming months to celebrate a milestone birthday.
The devastating loss has left family, friends, and the Franklin community heartbroken. Many are remembering the couple for the love they shared, the memories they created, and the lives they touched.
Some neighbors told reporters they had concerns about the condition of the tree before the storm, describing it as deteriorated and saying concerns had previously been raised with the property owner. Those details remain part of the ongoing investigation.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the family, friends, and loved ones of Georgette Arena and Stephen Lindstrom during this heartbreaking time.
May they rest in eternal peace.
