We were so saddened by this story which took place in England earlier this week. Leonna Ruka, a seven-year-old girl died after a tree suddenly collapsed on her in a park in Southend on Sea.
Her devastated family have described her as “a light in our lives”.
A six-year-old girl, who was also under the tree and is Leonna’s cousin, still remains critically ill in hospital. Three other children had minor injuries.
Up to 50 people tried to lift the tree when it trapped five children underneath it leaving them and emergency services staff in shock afterwards.
It is understood the 350 year old tree had been propped up by metal supports. A full and independent police investigation is under way. We are thinking of Leonna’s family and everybody affected by this tragedy at this sad time.
