Woman killed by falling tree branch named as 'vibrant' business leader

A woman who was tragically killed by a falling tree branch in Manchester has been identified as a 'well-respected' business leader and mother.

Jen Higgins, 49, suffered serious injuries when a branch suddenly fell onto her as she walked along Barlow Moor Road in West Didsbury, Manchester, on August 30. Despite the swift response of emergency services at around 7.15pm, they were sadly unable to save her life.

Ms Higgins was a respected figure in the PR industry, having founded and co-managed the PR firm Carousel, with two decades of experience in social media and PR campaigns.

A heartfelt tribute from her family states: "The family of Jen Higgins are heartbroken to confirm she lost her life in a sudden and tragic accident."

The family's tribute continued: "She was a beloved wife, daughter, sister, daughter-in-law, and aunt - a vibrant and supportive friend to many; and a dynamic and widely respected member of the Manchester business community.

"You will no doubt empathise with the deep and profound shock we are feeling at this moment and ask for privacy while we grieve. A further statement will be issued when we feel able."

Her company profile painted her as a "fan of live music and travel", a "multitasker extraordinaire" with an extensive contact list and a "love of social media."

A witness to the horrifying incident, who saw the branch break and fall, told the Manchester Evening News: "The tree just snapped, it was a big branch and just fell. A woman was walking underneath.

"The weather was a bit windy but not strong. A few locals came out and some of them were doctors so they were trying to help her. Then the ambulance came and police closed the road.

"It is a big tree and it was a massive branch that fell - blocking off all the road. It was two or three thick branches that fell at once."

Greater Manchester Police had previously stated: "At around 7:15pm on Saturday, August 30, we were called to reports a tree had fallen onto a woman on Barlow Moor Road, Didsbury.

"Despite the best efforts of emergency workers, a woman in her 40s was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. The death is not being treated as suspicious."