Ancient Tree Falls at Cambodian Pagoda, Killing 17-Year-Old Boy Preparing for Buddhist Festival

A tragic accident occurred at a pagoda in Kandal province, Cambodia, where an ancient tree, estimated to be nearly 100 years old, collapsed, killing a 17-year-old boy who was preparing for a Buddhist festival. The incident took place around 9:30 AM on September 24, 2026, at the Cheng Maeng Pagoda, located in Prey Chamkar village, Lumhach commune, Angsnoul district. The fallen tree was an Ampil (tamarind) tree with an estimated age of nearly a century. The tree directly struck the victim, Rith Chanty, 17, who was engaged in decorating the pagoda in preparation for the upcoming Pchum Ben festival, a traditional ancestor veneration ceremony. According to local residents, the boy was working alongside two other monks when, suddenly, the massive tree collapsed from its base despite clear and calm weather conditions. The boy, being directly underneath the tree, sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene. The two monks working with him were fortunate to be a short distance away from the tree, allowing them to escape the falling timber and sustain only minor injuries. The falling tree also struck a gold-colored Highlander SUV, which was transporting offerings to the monks, causing significant damage to the right side of the vehicle. This car was being used to deliver donations to the monastic community. Regarding the cause of the accident, local residents suggest that the Ampil tree, with its nearly 100 years of history, may have become hollowed out internally, leading to the decay of its base. The fact that it fell during calm weather, despite having withstood strong winds and heavy rain days prior, points to internal deterioration. Authorities are currently assessing the scene and have handed over the body to the victim's family for traditional funeral rites. The accident has sent shockwaves through the local community as preparations for traditional festivals were underway in Cambodia. It has once again highlighted the importance of pagoda maintenance and safety measures for aging infrastructure.