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Essex Police Launch Independent Investigation After Chalkwell Park Tree Collapse

Essex Police have opened a dedicated portal to collect witness statements following the collapse of a century-old cedar

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Overview

  • The collapse of a metal-supported cedar in Chalkwell Park on June 28 killed seven-year-old Leonna Ruka and injured four other children, including a six-year-old who remains in critical condition.
  • A full and independent Essex Police investigation is now under way and the force has set up an online portal for eyewitnesses to submit information.
  • Council safety teams have cordoned off sections of the park and begun thorough inspections of ageing trees after criticism of past maintenance regimes.
  • Community members have organised memorial services and St Mark the Evangelist Church held an evening for prayer and reflection on July 2.
  • A fundraiser has raised more than £30,000 to support Leonna’s family and local emergency services, intensifying calls for a systematic audit of public park trees.