Tribute from family of young girl, 7, killed by tree at a Southend park ahead of anniversary
Leonna was visiting family when a tree at Chalkwell Park partially collapsed, causing her to become trapped underneath it
As the first anniversary of the tragic incident at Chalkwell Park approaches, the family of seven-year-old Leonna Ruka have shared a tribute honouring their daughter.
Leonna, who was from Dagenham, was visiting family in Southend on 28th June 2025 when a tree partially collapsed, causing several children to become trapped beneath it.
Despite immediate help from bystanders and emergency services, Leonna was taken to hospital where she sadly passed away.
Another six-year-old girl was critically injured but has since left hospital and is recovering, while three other children sustained minor injuries.
Tribute from Leonna’s Parents
As the anniversary approaches this weekend, her parents, Leo and Floreta Ruka, have invited people to write in a memory book available at Chalkwell Park on Sunday.
Leo and Floreta said:
“We invite all those who would like to share kind words about Leonna, her life, and her legacy, to visit the park and write in her book.
"One year ago, our lives changed forever when we lost our beautiful daughter, Leonna, and with her a part of ourselves.
"It is hard to believe that a whole year has passed, in many ways, it feels impossible that so much time has gone by.
“In others, it feels as though we are still living the nightmare of the day she was taken from us and it is difficult to put into words the impact that loss continues to have on our family.
"As her parents, there are no words that can truly capture the pain of losing a child.
“The last year has been the longest and most difficult of our lives. Not a minute has passed without thinking about her.
“Not a day has passed without feeling the weight of her absence. While the world has continued to move forward, for those who loved Leonna, there remains a space that can never be filled.
"People often talk about the passage of time, but there is no measure of time that can lessen the love we have for our daughter or the pain of missing her.
"Leonna was an extraordinary person whose kindness, loving heart, caring nature and positive energy brightened the lives of everyone around her."
“We watched her grow, supported her dreams, celebrated her achievements, and loved her with all our hearts. We remain profoundly proud of the person Leonna was and the impact she had on those fortunate enough to know her.
"She had a future that should have been hers. We think about that every day.
"Over the past year, we have been touched by the kindness and support shown to our family. Knowing that Leonna is remembered and loved by so many people has brought us comfort during our darkest days, and for that we will always be grateful.
"As we mark this anniversary, we do not speak of moving on. Instead, we speak of remembering, honouring, and ensuring that Leonna is never forgotten.
"We know her legacy will continue to live on through the people who loved her and through all the lives she touched.
"We will continue to carry her with us in everything we do, and we hope that the love and light she brought into the world will never be forgotten.
"Leonna was our daughter, our pride, and our joy. We miss her beyond words, we love her beyond measure, and we will honour her memory for the rest of our lives.
"We sincerely appreciate your respect for our family's privacy as we remember Leonna and reflect on the profound loss we continue to live with each day."
Police Investigation Update
Essex Police have confirmed that their detailed investigation into the incident is ongoing and supported by experts, including the Health and Safety Executive.
Detective Chief Inspector Greg Wood, who is leading the investigation, said:
"One year on from this devastating incident, the thoughts of everyone involved in the investigation remain with the families and friends of both young girls – one of whom so tragically lost her life.
"We continue to offer support to those affected.
"Our investigation into the incident, supported by experts including the Health and Safety Executive, is ongoing.
"This remains a complex, forensic and sensitive process that will take time."