Tree brings down powerlines, closing part of Western Boulevard in Raleigh

A fallen tree closed a major thoroughfare for commuters late Tuesday night in Raleigh. 

Just before midnight, Raleigh police got the call about a tree that fell on top of a car near Western Boulevard and Method Road. Officers say the stump toppled from a nearby residence and trapped a woman inside her vehicle. Luckily, she was not seriously hurt. 

The large branches also brought down powerlines that entangled a dump truck traveling on the road. It took several minutes to remove the driver without injury, according to police. 

The road remained closed throughout Wednesday morning as Duke Energy crews worked to restore power to a dozen residents in the area.