Girl who died after tree collapsed in Southend park had 'heart full of love', family say

Tuesday, 1 July 2025 17:15

A seven-year-old girl who died after a tree partially collapsed at a park in Essex has been named.

Leonna Ruka, from Dagenham in east London, died in hospital after being caught beneath the tree at Chalkwell Park in Southend shortly before 3pm on Saturday.

She was among a number of children who became trapped. Essex Police said a second girl, aged six, remains in hospital in a critical condition.

Another three children suffered minor injuries.

Witnesses described the scene as "heartbreaking" and how 40 to 50 people had tried to lift up the fallen tree.

It comes as Leonna's family described her as "the light in their lives" in a statement.

"It is with broken hearts and unimaginable pain that we share the devastating loss of our beloved daughter Leonna - our beautiful, bright, and loving little girl, taken from us far too soon," they said.

"She was an intelligent and curious soul, full of energy and creativity.

"A little girl who was always exploring, always asking questions, always dreaming. She had a heart full of love and a mind full of endless ideas.

"She was funny, kind, and full of life - a shining star who brought happiness wherever she went and she met.

"From the moment she walked into a room, she would light it up."

The family also thanked everyone who had supported them since the tragedy, adding: "We are incredibly grateful for every candle lit, every flower placed, every tear shared in her memory.

"The outpouring of love for our daughter has brought us comfort in ways we never imagined possible."

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Essex Police said it is investigating the "circumstances around the collapse of the tree".

Assistant Chief Constable Lucy Morris said: "We are all hoping for a positive outcome in relation to the little girl who remains in hospital.

"Her family continue to receive support and our thoughts are with her."

She added: "There is a full and independent police investigation under way. This will take time.

"We will update on the outcome of these enquiries as soon as we possibly can."

Sky News

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