7-Year-Old Leonna Ruka Tragically Died While Visiting the Park with Her Family

She had gone to the park to play, just like any other child, but within moments, laughter turned to screams, as the life of the young girl and others were tragically taken beneath a tree.

A sunny afternoon turned into a nightmare at Chalkwell Park in Southend, Essex, when a massive tree collapsed, killing 7-year-old Leonna Ruka and injuring four other children.

The tragic incident occurred around 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 28, 2025, as families filled the popular park. Among the injured is a six-year-old girl who remains in critical condition in the hospital, while the three other children were treated for minor injuries, Daily Mail Online reports.

Essex Police also told the publication that many bystanders rushed to help immediately after the tree fell, showing immense bravery in a harrowing situation. Emergency services rushed to the scene, with six ambulances, two air ambulances, and fire crews responding to what police quickly declared a serious incident.

Witnesses described chaotic scenes of parents screaming, people rushing to help, and children being pulled from the fallen branches. Unfortunately, Leonna was pronounced dead at the scene. A witness stated that he would "never forget the screams" of the children involved, while he described seeing a tree "split and fall to the ground."

Authorities also believe a large cedar tree near the park's manor house, Chalkwell Hall, suddenly gave way. Witnesses reported the tree appeared to split, sending massive branches crashing down.

One man and three other men reportedly helped lift a huge branch off a trapped child. Police and city officials confirmed an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the collapse.

"It's absolutely dreadful. The park was absolutely heaving with families and kids this afternoon. People are taking gazebos and they're having picnics, there's [sic] two playgrounds there and it was just full of people," said Adam Ramet, a local business owner who spoke exclusively to Daily Mail Online.

Chief Superintendent Leighton Hammett acknowledged the emotional toll the incident took on everyone involved: "Families are facing unimaginable hardship this evening and all of our thoughts are with them at this time. I cannot begin to put into words how difficult today's events have been, and continue to be, for them."

"It's also not lost on me how traumatic it must have been for the members of the public who witnessed this awful incident. Across a matter of moments, many of them went from enjoying the warm summer weather to rushing to the aid of strangers without a second thought," he continued, describing the love and humanity shown by the public.

Southend West and Leigh MP, David Burton-Sampson, said, "The news of the sad death of one of the children involved in the incident at Chalkwell Park today is truly devastating."

"I am sure I reflect the thoughts of all our residents here in Southend in sending my deepest condolences to the child’s family and friends. My thoughts are also with the other children injured and I wish them a full and speedy recovery," he continued.

In the aftermath, large sections of the park have been cordoned off, and investigators continue to examine the site. A public information portal is expected to launch soon for witnesses or those seeking updates.

Meanwhile, the community has transformed the area near the fallen tree into a growing memorial. Many bouquets, cuddly toys, and heartfelt letters now lay at the scene of the tragedy. Photos shared by local photographer Aaron Chesham capture the raw emotion and support pouring in from residents.

Locals have not only gathered at the site to grieve but have also been contributing to a fundraiser in Leonna's memory, rallying around the affected families with messages of love and solidarity.

Visitors to the park over the weekend described a touching moment. A red admiral butterfly landed softly on one of the tribute cards and didn't fly away. The butterfly, often seen in folklore as a spiritual messenger, brought quiet comfort to those present.

The loss of Leonna has left a painful mark on the community, but through acts of kindness, shared grief, and symbols of hope, Southend is finding a way to honor her memory.