Cornwall Tragedy
James Southey, a 50-year-old gardener, died on 9 January 2026 (some sources say 8 January) after a large tree fell on his static caravan at a farm in Penzance, Cornwall, during Storm Goretti. Wind speeds reached 144 km/h (90 mph), leaving about 50,000 homes without power.
The tree, which had been deemed healthy in summer 2025, was uprooted due to a shallow root system and waterlogged soil. Neighbours and the landlord tried to rescue Southey but were unable due to the storm and damage. His body was recovered the following day. A post-mortem revealed death by asphyxia from the weight of the branch; no other significant injuries were found. The coroner recorded a verdict of accidental death.