Totaled! Windstorm Drops Massive Branch on Parked SUV in Ridgewood

Leonard Place Collision: Mother Nature Damages Toyota RAV4

photos courtesy of Boyd Loving’s Facebook page

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, a powerful wind storm swept through Ridgewood, New Jersey, on Friday afternoon, 10/31/2025, leaving behind a trail of property damage. The most dramatic incident reported involved a large tree branch that snapped off and fell onto a parked vehicle on Leonard Place.

The unlucky target was an unoccupied Toyota RAV4 which, according to police, was essentially “smothered” by the heavy limb. This incident serves as a sharp reminder of the risks associated with parking under large trees during periods of high wind.

The Details of the Incident

The storm’s intensity proved too much for the old tree, resulting in a significant chunk crashing down onto the street.

• Location: Leonard Place, Ridgewood, NJ.
• Time: Friday afternoon, 10/31.
• Damage: The parked Toyota RAV4 sustained extensive damage from the falling limb.
• Injuries: Fortunately, no injuries were reported, as the SUV was unoccupied at the time of the mishap.

Officers from the Ridgewood Police Department Patrol Division responded quickly to the scene. Their primary role was to take a property damage report, secure the area, and manage traffic until the hazard could be cleared. The sheer size of the branch likely required a specialized removal crew to fully extract the vehicle and clear the roadway.

Stay Safe: Parking Precautions During High Winds

As the autumn and winter seasons bring unpredictable weather to Bergen County, residents should take proactive steps to avoid property damage from falling debris.

Here are quick safety tips for parking during wind storms:

1. Avoid Large Trees: Whenever possible, avoid parking directly under large, mature trees, especially those showing signs of rot, decay, or dead branches.
2. Use Garages or Carports: If you have access to covered parking, use it.
3. Check Local Alerts: Pay attention to Ridgewood Police and local weather advisories regarding high wind warnings.

If you find yourself facing similar damage, remember to always contact the Ridgewood Police Department to file a report for insurance purposes before attempting to move the damaged property.

 

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