What was meant to be a joyful afternoon at Chalkwell Park turned into heartbreak when a 350-year-old tree suddenly fell, killing 7-year-old Leonna Ruka and injuring several others.

Leonna, from Dagenham, was visiting the Southend-on-Sea park with her family when the ancient tree collapsed without warning. She later died in hospital. Her 6-year-old cousin remains in critical condition, while three other children escaped with minor injuries.

“Leonna was our light,” her family shared. “She brought joy, love, and laughter wherever she went. Her spirit was pure.”

Bystanders rushed to help, lifting branches with their bare hands in a desperate rescue attempt before emergency crews arrived. In the days that followed, the park filled with flowers and candles—quiet tributes from a grieving community.

Officials are now investigating what caused the tree to fall. Though it had stood for centuries, something unseen brought it down in an instant.

Assistant Chief Constable Lucy Morris summed up the collective grief: “This tragedy defies understanding. We’re doing all we can to support the family and find answers.”

Leonna’s loved ones ended their tribute with a reminder of her enduring impact: “Though she’s gone, her light lives on—in kindness, in love, in every beautiful moment.”

This heartbreaking loss has left a lasting scar—but also revealed the strength of a community that came together in sorrow, love, and hope.