Tributes paid to 11-year-old boy after fatal crash with lorry in Ongar
The Essex town has been described as "devastated" and "in mourning", while more than £90,000 has been raised to support the family of George Dennis
Tributes have been paid to an 11-year-old boy from Ongar who died after being involved in a crash with a lorry.
George Dennis died in hospital with serious injuries following the crash on Epping Road in Ongar on Friday afternoon (July 10).
His death has sparked an outpouring of tributes – including from members of Essex County Council at a meeting on July 14. Chairman of Essex County Council Councillor Karen McIvor said: “My heart goes out to the family of George, who I know.
“It has rocked the community, but the response of the community has been incredible. My heart goes out to everybody in Ongar affected.”
Ongar Division member Councillor Jaymey McIvor said: “The town is in mourning. The town is devastated. But we are also so united in supporting the Dennis family.”
More than £90,000 has been raised so far on a fundraising page set up to support George’s family. A statement on the page says: “Our community has been rocked by the very sad passing of George Dennis, an 11-year-old kind, bright, beautiful little boy whose life was taken too soon on July 10 2026.
“But nobody’s lives have been changed more than his family, this loss is unmeasurable and unimaginable and it’s with a heavy heart they have to navigate a life without George. There are no words and no right or wrong way to support and hold their hand at this time.”
It added: “George is one of a kind, a shining light, kind, caring, beautiful and far to precious. As parents please be incredibly proud of the special boy that has left an hole in our hearts and our community.”
A statement from his football club Ongar Juniors said: “It is with immense sadness that we share the heartbreaking news that our former and recently returning player, George, tragically lost his life in a road traffic accident.
“George was a talented footballer, a natural leader and a much-loved member of the Ongar Juniors family. Known affectionately as “Twinkle Toes”, he will be remembered for his wonderful ability, his huge smile and the joy he brought to his teammates and coaches. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with George’s family, friends and everyone affected by this unimaginable loss.”
George was a pupil at Moreton C of E Primary School. Dozens of flowers and balloons have been left at the scene of the collision. Among them are flags for Tottenham Hotspur and England.
One tribute left at the scene reads: “We miss you so much thank you for being such a good friend. Fly high our little angel, you’re gone but never forgotten. Love you so much.”
Nikki Batt, headteacher of Moreton C of E Primary School said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of one our pupils, who was a beloved and cherished member of the school community. This has been a shock for us all, and we are providing support for our pupils during this incredibly difficult time.”
A man, 48, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has been bailed until mid-September while an investigation continues.