HENRY COUNTY, Va. – A freak accident claimed the lives of the fire chief of Horsepasture, Va. and his wife.

Virginia State Police say the couple died when their 2017 Ford Explorer was crushed by a falling tree.

According to police, the crash happened just before 5 p.m. on Friday on Route 793 just south of Route 687. The Explorer was traveling north on Route 793 when it was struck by a falling tree. The vehicle then ran off the left side of the road and struck a utility pole and several trees.

62-year-old Charles Howard Bradshaw was driving. His 63-year-old wife, Sherri Gordon Bradshaw, was in the passenger seat. The cab was crushed and both died at the scene. State Police say both were wearing seat belts.

The couple had just picked up their grandsons, who were in the back seat. Neither was injured.

A statement from Henry County recognized Chief Bradshaw for his “unwavering courage as a first responder, and his dedication to protecting citizens.”