By Samuel Borlay.
Nyewilihun Town, Lofa County,Lofa, A tragic incident has cast a shadow over the quiet town of Nyewilihun, as community members mourn the death of 38-year-old Bomah Kortu, who was killed by a falling tree while working on her farm on May 27.
According to eyewitness accounts, Bomah had left her home early that fateful morning, embarking on a routine task to clear her farmland located a 40 to 45-minute walk from the main town. Reports indicate that while she was engaged in her clearing activities, a large tree unexpectedly broke and fell. Despite her attempts to escape to higher ground, she was struck multiple times, resulting in her immediate death at the scene.
The tragedy unfolded when Bomah’s husband, who was involved in a community project at the time, returned home later that day only to discover that his wife had not yet returned. Concerned for her safety, he made his way to their farmland, where he found her lifeless body lying between the fallen tree and a nearby palm tree.
Upon receiving the heartbreaking news, Nyewilihun’s town chief quickly mobilized a team of local men to assess the situation. They confirmed the tragic circumstances and alerted the Kolahun district authorities and security officers to initiate an investigation.
In response to the incident, a high-level delegation, including district officials, medical personnel, and security officers, arrived in Nyewilihun on May 28.
To ensure a thorough investigation, a 15-member jury was established to look into the circumstances surrounding her death. Their inquiry concluded that there was no foul play involved, affirming that Bomah died as a direct result of the falling tree while she was working on her farm.
Following the investigation, Bomah’s body was returned to her family for burial. Community members reflected on the tragic event, recalling similar incidents involving falling trees that have occurred in the area both before and after the Liberian civil war. This has raised renewed concerns regarding the safety of individuals working alone in remote farmland areas.
As Nyewilihun grapples with this loss, the community has come together to support Bomah Kortu’s family during this difficult time, emphasizing the need for increased safety measures for those working in vulnerable conditions. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable dangers that can arise in rural farming activities.
Dignitaries present during the investigation included Kolahun District Commissioner Hon. Joseph Yarkoi, Clan Chief Mr. Francis Bolay, and CID Commander Officer Emmanuel N. Bolay, all of whom expressed their condolences to the grieving family.
