Historic 400-year-old tree collapses in d. C. , damaging home and vehicles
Photo 88406808 © Cvandyke | Dreamstime.com

Historic 400-Year-Old Tree Collapses in D.C., Damaging Home and Vehicles

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A historic landmark, the Northampton Oak, estimated to be over 400 years old, tragically fell on Monday morning, causing damage to a home and several vehicles on Northampton Street, Northwest.

Long-time resident Gary Thompson described hearing a “loud crack” that signaled the tree’s fall, which also resulted in downed power lines and a temporary power outage in the area.

Despite the extensive property damage, there were no injuries reported. Thompson expressed relief that the incident was not more severe and shared his hope that the wood from the fallen oak could be repurposed into furniture.

He also plans to seek out younger trees in the city that originated from the oak’s acorns, preserving a legacy of the once-mighty tree that served as a beloved community centerpiece.

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News