Falling Branch From 100-year-old Oak Tree Kills 2 In Western IL

ROCK ISLAND, Ill. (AP) -- Authorities say an area in western Illinois where two people were killed when a large tree branch fell on them during a fireworks show is being treated like a crime scene.

Rock Island County Sheriff's Capt. Mitch Lee said Thursday that the area near the county courthouse has been cordoned off until tree experts can examine the branch and the century-old oak tree.

Lee says investigators hope the experts can explain why the branch fell during Tuesday night's "Red, White and Boom" fireworks show. He says green leaves were on the branch. The sheriff says the wind was blowing no more than 3 mph (4.8 kph).

Authorities say the branch measured more than 8 feet (2.5 meters) around in some parts. It fell about 25 feet (8 meters). Several people were also injured, including a pregnant woman who later gave birth. Both are reported in good health.

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