Overview

• A seven-year-old girl died and a six-year-old remains critically injured while three others suffered minor injuries after a large branch collapsed in Chalkwell Park on June 28.
• Essex Police have launched a formal investigation and established an online public portal to gather information on the tree’s structural failure.
• Southend-on-Sea Council faces scrutiny over its maintenance regime after reports that the ageing cedar had long been supported by metal props.
• A memorial service held on June 30 drew residents and councillors who paid tribute and laid flowers at a designated area in the park.
• Parts of Chalkwell Park remain cordoned off as authorities conduct safety inspections and residents press for a systematic audit of public-space trees.