Lawsuit Filed Against City Over Falling Park Tree
The $15 million suit follows an injury in Gabriel Park and questions the city's ongoing tree maintenance program.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Accidents
A pedestrian is seeking $15 million in damages from the City of Portland after a 65-foot tree fell and struck her in Gabriel Park. The lawsuit filed in Multnomah County Circuit Court alleges negligence in the maintenance of decaying trees within city parks.
Why it matters
The case highlights concerns regarding park safety and the efficacy of the city's tree maintenance pilot program. Residents are left to wonder if the current inspection process is sufficient to protect those using the city's green spaces.
The plaintiff reports over $100,000 in medical bills and $24,000 in lost wages, with future expenses projected at $250,000. While the City Forester noted 135 parks have been inspected under a program launched in 2022, the full extent of outstanding tree maintenance remains unknown.
The players
Danielle Devine
The plaintiff who filed a lawsuit against the City of Portland for injuries sustained in a public park.
City of Portland
The local government entity currently managing public parks and urban forestry programs.
City Forester
The municipal official responsible for overseeing tree health and public safety in city parks.
The details
Danielle Devine alleges the city failed to remove a leaning tree that showed signs of white rot fungus at its base. The incident occurred on October 25, 2024, when the tree broke from its base and caused head injuries, facial lacerations, and rib fractures. The City Forester previously provided an update on the ongoing maintenance pilot program to the Parks Committee in May 2024.
Timeline
2022: City initiates a pilot program for tree maintenance.
May 2024: City Forester provides an update to the Parks Committee.
October 25, 2024: Danielle Devine is struck by a falling tree in Gabriel Park.
October 23, 2026: Lawsuit is filed in Multnomah County Circuit Court.
Beyond the Bridges
This lawsuit directly challenges the safety standards set by the city's 2022 tree maintenance pilot program. It marks a critical legal test of whether the current inspection protocols in place for the city's 135 monitored parks are sufficient to mitigate public risk.
Park visitors should remain aware of their surroundings, particularly near large or leaning trees during wind events. The city's ongoing maintenance efforts continue to move through the park system following the 2022 initiative.
The takeaway
The case highlights the importance of municipal tree maintenance and public safety in shared green spaces. Residents can follow future proceedings in Multnomah County Circuit Court to see how the city defends its current inspection and maintenance policies.
Further reading
Learn more about local safety reports and public space management in the Accidents section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KATU.
