Homeowner frustrated by rail companys response to fallen tree

A Cumberland County man says hes frustrated after a tree on Norfolk Southerns property fell on his house last month, as the company is refusing to help pay for the costs of the damage and tree removal.

Michael Eby said hed been concerned about the trees that are few feet from his house and had asked the railway company to remove them.

These large trees here that are overhanging this cliff. And, some are looking somewhat rotted too, that they could just fall at any moment if we get one of these large snowstorms, said Eby.

On Feb. 5, Eby said he got a call from the tenant living in the home he owns on Market Street in Wormleysburg. A tree had fallen on the roof, causing an electrical wire to fall.

Emergency crews actually made her come out the front door, but made her crawl down backwards down the stairs under the live wire, said Eby.

The tenant was fine. So, soon after, Eby said he contacted Norfolk Southern to see what the company would do about removing the tree and helping him to pay for the damage.

Eby said a claims adjuster told him, Theyre going to deny the claim because it was weather-related. And, they consider it unforeseen, and they dont have any legal liability.

Norfolk Southern spokesman David Pidgeon declined to comment to FOX43, saying the company doesnt discuss individual claims.

Eby reached out to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission.

Jennifer Kocher, a spokeswoman for the commission, said her agency cant force Norfolk Southern to do anything, as the none of the trees near Ebys home are impacting the safety of the rail line itself.

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Homeowner frustrated by rail companys response to fallen tree