Chicago Fire actress Molly Glynn has sadly passed away in a freak accident after being struck by a falling tree during a violent storm. The 46-year-old American was on a bike ride with her husband, Joe Foust, in Chicago’s Erikson Woods Forest Preserve on Friday 5 September when the tragedy occurred.

She was taken to Evanston Hospital where she died from her injuries about 18 hours after the accident.

Her grieving spouse, with whom she has two sons, broke the news of his wife’s hospitalisation by declaring it "the darkest day of my life." Joe later wrote a heart-breaking post on Facebook that read: "I couldn’t save her. I couldn’t save her. She’s gone."

Northfield Assistant Fire Chief Tom Burke explained that the bicycle path was too narrow to accommodate the fire truck and ambulance dispatched to treat her and that paramedics had to hike half a mile to reach her.

MORE: Chicago Actress, Molly Glynn, Dies In A Tragic Accident

Molly played several roles in film and television, including a recurring role in the NBC drama series, Chicago Fire and Boss starring Kelsey Grammer. However, it was the theatre scene where the talented star found her biggest successes, starring in 17 productions in the last decade.

Michael Halberstam, Writers Theatre artistic director, told CBS: "Molly was a marvellous actress and a completely warm-hearted and generous human being. She had grace, sophistication and a sparkling, sexy, sassy stage presence.

"It is an incalculable loss to the Chicago theatre community, particularly as she was in the process of emerging as one of the city’s major players. She possessed a rare combination of talent, heart and beauty in all aspects of her life."

An online charitable campaign to help fund Molly’s funeral has already raised over $120,000.