Off-duty Massachusetts firefighter hurt by falling tree limb praised for "courageous actions" warning others

An off-duty Massachusetts firefighter was hospitalized Wednesday afternoon after a large tree limb snapped, falling to the ground below and landing on him. It happened around 12:30 p.m. on Eaton Road in Framingham.

Waltham Fire Lt. Selvin Sandoval saved others from being hurt, warning DPW workers and an Amazon delivery driver when he heard the tree making a cracking sound.

"It was crazy," said neighbor Danielle Lubs. "A complete freak accident. I was totally caught off guard. Obviously he's always walking his dog up and down the street, great guy, awesome, his family is wonderful too."

The 39-year-old was off-duty and walking down the street when the branch from a large oak tree came crashing down. The tree limb snapped, hit Sandoval in the head and toppled onto the DPW truck.

Framingham Fire Chief Michael Dutcher said that witnesses jumped in and provided first aid.  

A spokesperson for the city of Framingham said Sandoval's "courageous actions are especially notable." 

Sandoval was initially trapped, but was able to free himself before first responders arrived. He was alert and talking when he was taken to a Boston hospital for treatment. 

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Lt. Sandoval and his family at this challenging time. We wish him a quick and full recovery. We are also very proud to learn that Lt. Sandoval took actions prior to the tree limb falling that protected others from being hurt," Waltham Fire Chief Andrew Mullin said in a statement. "I can assure you that the entire family of the Waltham Fire Department – our members and their families will do everything possible to support Lt. Sandoval and his family."