12-year-old killed by falling tree limb in Lawrence Township: police

LAWRENCE TWP., Pa. - A playful time in a backyard led to a fatality in Mercer County Monday afternoon, police say. 

At around 2 p.m. in Lawrence Township, police say a 12-year-old boy was playing in his backyard with a friend when a tree limb blew off and hit the child, resulting in a fatality. 

The Lawrence Township Public Schools District sent out a letter Monday evening to families regarding the incident, 

According to the letter from Superintendent of Schools, Robin Klim, the victim, Lucas Schwartz, was a 7th grader at Lawrence Middle School. 

"As a district we are doing everything we can to support our community. The Middle School team will have counselors available this week to assist any students or staff that would like to speak with someone during this difficult time. In addition, therapy dogs and members of the Mercer County Traumatic Loss Coalition will be on site," reads the letter. "We are heartbroken by the loss to our school community and will make every effort to help you and your child as needed. We will keep parents and guardians updated on the needs of our district and appreciate your support as we respond to this tragic situation."

For parents in the community, the Mercer County Traumatic Loss Coalition will be at the LMS Library on Thursday, October 17, at 6 p.m., to help parents with ways to provide support to their children through the grieving process.

Below is a list of resources to contact if needed:

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