Local teacher Patricia Pusha in house killed by falling tree

Firefighters confirm a woman died early Monday moing after a tree fell on top of her northwest Atlanta home.

Family members identify the victim as Dr. Patricia Pusha, who was a teacher in DeKalb County. 

The large oak tree came crashing down just before 2:00 a.m. on Oakcliff Road. Firefighters think it likely was weakened by rainy weather. 

The victim was in a back den-like room sitting on a recliner. Fire fighters say she probably died instantly.

It took crews hours to get to the victim, telling reporters they needed to shore up both the home and tree before entering.

The victim's niece said her aunt had just tued 60-years-old and is from Savannah, Georgia. 

Family members say Pusha taught science at McNair Middle School. They also described her as deeply religious and loving. 

Neighbors say the woman lived in the house with her brother. He escaped unharmed. According to them she was a teacher, who often seen walking her dog.