Worker, 21, killed by falling oak tree at camp near Yosemite
GROVELAND, Calif. — A 21-year-old summer camp worker was killed Wednesday when a large oak tree fell at the site near Yosemite National Park, a group said.
The worker was identified as Annais Rittenberg by the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley, which provides scholarships for children to attend Camp Tawonga. No children were hurt.
Four other adults were injured and treated at hospitals after the tree fell as people were eating breakfast. The tree took down power lines near the campfire but did not damage any buildings.
In an email sent to parents, the federation said some activities were being resumed.
“The campers are doing well and are participating in camp activities away from the scene,” read the statement attributed to camp director Ken Kramarz. “Our on-site staff therapists are working closely with first responder grief experts to help care for our community in this difficult time.”
Sonora Regional Medical Center received two women ages 20 and 21 with minor injuries, spokeswoman Gail Witzelsteiner said. Memorial Medical Center in Modesto received one of the injured adults by air ambulance, spokesman Craig Baize said. He said he could not provide the patient’s condition.
There are about 300 campers and 150 staff at the facility that offers sessions for students in 2nd grade through 10th grade. The camp is located on 160 acres in the community of Groveland in the Stanislaus National Forest.
It has been in operation since 1925, according to its website.
