12 injured when tree falls at Diablo Valley College graduation ceremony

Twelve people were injured after a large tree fell onto a group of spectators during a graduation ceremony at Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill, California, on Friday evening. The incident occurred at approximately 6:54 p.m. near the college’s football stadium on 321 Golf Club Road, toward the end of the event.

Authorities confirmed that two of the injured were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Their current conditions have not been released. The extent of injuries sustained by the remaining victims has not yet been disclosed.

Photos shared by witnesses show the massive tree collapsed on its side with people caught beneath its branches, while others looked on or took pictures in shock. Emergency personnel, already on site as part of the college’s event protocol, responded immediately to aid the victims.

School officials stated that safety remains their top priority and expressed regret that the incident occurred during such a significant celebration. “We deeply regret that this incident occurred during this milestone occasion. We congratulate all of our graduates and hope they are able to celebrate with their loved ones this evening,” the college said in a statement.

The college, a public community institution founded in 1949, serves students at campuses in Pleasant Hill and San Ramon. First responders from the Contra Costa Fire Protection District assisted in providing emergency care and began the process of tree removal following the accident.

Officials are now investigating the cause of the tree's collapse. It is not yet known what led to the incident or how large the tree was. The investigation is expected to begin in the coming days.