12 injured when tree falls during Diablo Valley College graduation ceremony

Stephanie Lam, The Mercury News on May 24, 2025

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SAN JOSE, Calif. — A dozen people were injured when a tree fell on a Diablo Valley College football field during a graduation commencement ceremony Friday evening.

The incident happened at 6:54 p.m. toward the end of the ceremony in Pleasant Hill, according to a statement from the college.

The tree fell adjacent to the football field, and bystanders who were watching the ceremony were struck by it. By midday Saturday, it still was not clear what caused the tree to fall down.

Several people were treated for injuries at the scene and two people were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Their conditions have not been released. Those treated onsite were released, while another person went to the hospital on their own, the college stated.

Emergency responders and police services were already on site per the college’s standard event protocol and quickly treated the injured. The college’s maintenance staff removed the tree after the emergency response.

DVC’s police services and maintenance teams are investigating the circumstances of this incident, according to Jennifer Ortega, District Director of Communications for the Contra Costa Community College District.

In a statement, college officials said their thoughts are with the, “individuals and families affected by this incident, and wish those injured a speedy recovery.”

“The safety of our students, employees and visitors to our campus is our top priority,” the college said. “We deeply regret that this incident occurred during this milestone occasion.”

In a message to staff, Susan Lamb, the president of Diablo Valley College said she congratulates all 2,442 graduates and hope they are able to, “celebrate with their loved ones this evening.”

“Our community of employees, graduates, and attendees all responded with action and care to assist as needed,” Lamb said. “We are grateful for their contributions everyday in service.”

Diablo Valley s a community college in Contra Costa County with campuses in Pleasant Hill and San Ramon.