(WWJ) A Huntington Woods Department of Public Works employee died Friday night after he was hit by a tree limb while responding to emergency cleanup operations following the wind storm that hit Metro Detroit.
A statement posted by the city says Doug Chmiel was struck by a falling limb as he cleared a road for emergency vehicle access. Family members say Chmiel was hit by a large tree limb that "struck Doug in the head, causing a massive brain hemorrhage." He was "rushed to the Royal Oak Beaumont Hospital trauma bay, where doctors fought to save his life. Despite their efforts, Doug passed away just a few hours later."
Wind gusts of 60-70 mph were reported across southeastern Michigan Friday.
A message posted on the Huntington Woods website says "This is a profound loss for the entire Huntington Woods staff and community. Our employees are the foundation of our organization, and losing a colleague who was dedicated to their work and community is truly heartbreaking."
Chmiel leaves behind a wife and three young children. The family established a Go Fund Me account and said "Doug was a veteran who served in the Army National Guard and was a devoted husband and father who worked hard every day to care for his family. Doug was the kind of man who showed up for everyone around him."
The City of Huntington Woods set up counseling and support services through its Employee Assistance Program for city staff.