Falling tree kills N.J. synagogue-goers

(JTA) – Two Orthodox Jewish men returning from a New Jersey synagogue after evening services were killed by a falling tree.

The accident occurred Saturday night in Teaneck when a large oak tree that could not withstand the force of powerful winds fell, also knocking down power lines.

The victims were identified as Lawrence Krause, a well-known Manhattan personal injury attorney, and Ovadia Mussaffi, president of The Sephardic Congregation of Teaneck, according to local reports.

Heavy rain accompanied the winds, which reached 60 mph. The storm knocked out power and downed trees throughout the New York metropolitan area.