Police and fire officials assess tree collapse scene in Southend park that killed 7-year-old girl. Pic: Essex Police
Essex, UK (Epicstorian News) — Leonna Ruka, 7, tragically died in the Southend park tragedy when a large tree partially collapsed in the busy Chalkwell Park, Southend-on-Sea.
Emergency services were called to the scene shortly before 3:00 p.m. on Saturday following reports of children trapped beneath a fallen tree.
Leonna Ruka, from Dagenham, was rushed to hospital but later died from her injuries. Her six-year-old cousin is still fighting for her life.
The Southend park tragedy occurred while Leonna and her family were visiting the area from East London.
Three other children sustained minor injuries during the incident, which drew an immediate response from bystanders and local sports club members, including individuals from the nearby Westcliff Cricket Club.
Dozens Tried to Lift Tree Before Emergency Crews Arrived
Witnesses said between 40 to 50 people rushed to help lift the tree off the children. One bystander told the BBC that members of the public acted quickly before police, paramedics and firefighters arrived.
“It was chaos, but people worked together as fast as they could,” the witness said. All five children were quickly extracted and transported for medical care.
First responders from the East of England Ambulance Service, Essex Police, and the fire brigade responded rapidly. A cordon was established around the scene, with teams remaining at the park for hours to assess the area and support affected families.
Family Describes Leonna Ruka as “Light in Our Lives”
In a heartbreaking statement, Leonna’s family said she was “more than just a child – she was a light in our lives.” They described the young girl as kind, vibrant, and creative, with “a heart full of love and a mind full of endless ideas.”
“She brought happiness wherever she went. She was perfect—too perfect for a world that can be so cruel and unfair,” the family added. The statement has sparked an outpouring of support across Essex and London, with tributes flooding in from across the region.
Collapsed Tree Had Supports for Decades, Say Officials
Southend-on-Sea Council revealed the tree was around 350 years old and had been propped up for years. Local officials confirmed routine inspections had been carried out as recently as Monday.
A former council member noted the tree had visible structural supports dating back to at least the 1990s, raising questions about its long-term safety.
The BBC reported that structural supports had helped keep the tree upright for decades, though it’s unclear whether any recent concerns were raised.
A full independent investigation is now underway to determine whether any negligence contributed to the collapse.
Essex Police Leading Ongoing Investigation
Assistant Chief Constable Lucy Morris of Essex Police said, “To lose a child in any circumstance is unthinkable. To lose a child in this terrible way defies all belief.”
She added that the tragedy has shaken emergency workers and residents alike, calling it a moment of shared grief for the entire community.
Police continue to appeal for witnesses and are encouraging anyone with video footage or firsthand accounts to come forward. A dedicated support line has also been set up to assist families and locals affected by the Southend park tragedy.
Public Mourning Grows as Park Becomes Memorial Site
By Monday, residents had begun leaving flowers, toys and handwritten notes beneath the tree. Members of the council, along with police and fire service leaders, visited the site to pay respects.
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The scene, marked by black and yellow police tape, now serves as both a memorial and an active investigation site.
Calls have grown for a broader review of tree safety across public parks in the region. Local parents are demanding transparency around inspection procedures and asking for additional safety measures in high-traffic play areas.
Vigil and Tribute Planned in Leonna’s Honor
A candlelight vigil is being planned later this week in Leonna’s memory. Organizers are encouraging residents to attend and wear white in her honor.
A permanent tribute within the park is also under discussion, with supporters urging the council to preserve the tree’s remains as a memorial.
The Southend park tragedy continues to reverberate across communities in Essex and beyond, as investigators work to ensure accountability and families mourn the loss of a child described as truly unforgettable.
