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120-Foot Tree Crushes Nevada City Home Shortly After Family Leaves For School

NEVADA CITY (CBS13) — A family's world was crushed when a 120-foot tree fell on their home during Friday's high winds, but their spirits are still high.

The tree fell onto the family's home minutes after a mom, her two children and 9-month-old baby had left for school.

"My daughter's room is just on top of the oven, I don't really know what to think yet," said Sarah Johnson.

The only one at home at the time was the family's cat named Salvo. He didn't come out of the rubble until hours later. CBS13 cameras captured that moment when the family was reunited.

"Oh my goodness, You're OK," Johnson said. "Not a scratch on him."

The tree landed on top of the wood-burning stove, causing a small fire.

Johnson says she barely recognizes her own home. Most of her belongings crumbled under the weight of the massive pine tree, leaving only a few pictures and clothes salvageable.

The Red Cross is helping the family, but they won't be able to spend the holidays in the home as it's a total loss.

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