Arborist says root rot contributed to tree fall that killed Gig Harbor man in windstorm

TACOMA, Wash. (AP) — A California arborist says the tree that fell and killed a Washington state man over the summer had root rot disease, making it more likely to fall in high winds.

The News Tribune reports that a report from certified arborist Ruben Green says the tree should have been inspected and identified as a risk. He found that about 60 percent of the tree's root structure was missing or compromised.

The Douglas fir was growing at Heron's Key, a senior living community under development in Gig Harbor.

It was blown over during an Aug. 29 windstorm and crashed onto Jamie Fay's car.

His 3-year-old daughter was also in the vehicle but was not injured.

Green was hired by Fay's family. Attorney John Ladenburg Sr. released the report Feb. 5.