PHILADELPHIA – A Philadelphia family is grieving the sudden and heartbreaking death of Maria Camela Lazo Hannecart, known as “Ella,” who was killed on October 30 when a large tree fell onto her car as she drove to work in the East Falls neighborhood.
The fatal incident happened along School House Lane, where authorities say the tree unexpectedly collapsed onto her vehicle, killing the 41-year-old nurse practitioner instantly. Ella worked at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center.
Her husband, Pierre Hannecart, described the moment he learned of the tragedy as the darkest day of his life — recalling the police officer who showed up at his door with the devastating news he never imagined he would receive.
Ella dedicated much of her career to humanitarian medical care. Prior to joining Penn Presbyterian, she served with Doctors Without Borders, working in Haiti, Senegal, and the Congo, where she was involved in critical care efforts during an Ebola outbreak. It was there she met Pierre, who would later become her husband.
Together, the couple built a life and family in Philadelphia, raising three children, ages 3, 7, and 9. Pierre says telling their children about their mother’s death was the most painful moment he has ever experienced.
Friends, colleagues, and loved ones will gather Sunday for her funeral service to honor her life, her work, and the selfless compassion she brought to others. A GoFundMe fundraiser has been launched to assist the family in the months ahead.
Pierre says Ella will be remembered for her honesty, empathy, and deep love for her family and patients.
Ella’s legacy leaves a profound impact — one defined by global humanitarian work, motherhood, and service to others.