Boy critically hurt by falling tree branch at Wayland, Massachusetts summer camp

A boy was critically hurt Tuesday morning when a large tree branch fell on him at YMCA Camp Chickami in Wayland, Massachusetts.

It happened around 10:45 a.m. at the children's day camp on Boston Post Road, also known as Route 20.

During a news conference, authorities said that the boy was hit by a large branch and suffered life-threatening injuries. A camp counselor was hit by a smaller branch and was taken away by ambulance with minor injuries. 

The boy was taken to Wayland Town Hall where MedFlight was waiting. He was then taken by helicopter to Mass General Hospital. 

Officials said during the news conference that a large tree fell, causing a domino effect as it knocked down another tree in the area. 

"We both agree that this is something that's highly unusual," Fire Chief Neil McPherson said. 

The camp is operated by West Suburban YMCA. Jack Fucci, president and CEO, released a statement Tuesday afternoon.

"A camper was injured and has been transported by air ambulance to a nearby hospital. Our thoughts and prayers are with this young camper and their family. We are providing support services to other campers and staff who were present during this accident, and will keep our camp community fully informed," Fucci said.

Fucci added at the news conference that the camp does have an annual tree plan. He said there will be an investigation into what happened.

The camp closed for the day on Tuesday and will be closed again on Wednesday.

"As you can tell, it's a traumatic experience for everybody," Fucci said. 

One woman who lives in the area said she heard the commotion and came outside to see what was happening. Her child once attended the camp program.

"We were home and heard a lot of noises, like fire trucks and ambulances," the woman said. "Over seven police cars came in, fire trucks, and a few ambulances. The kids wondered what happened, so we went out and looked."

YMCA Camp Chickami is described on its website as a "traditional day camp located on a beautiful, wooded property bordering conservation land."

The summer camp was founded in 1955. According to the camp's website, children from 6 to 14 years old attend.

Wayland is located in Middlesex County, about 18 miles west of Boston.