Four-year-old dies after gravestone falls onto him
The incident at Rawtenstall Cemetery has been described as a "terrible tragedy".
A young child has tragically died after a gravestone fell onto him at Rawtenstall Cemetery, prompting an outpouring of grief from the local community.
Lancashire Police confirmed they were called to the cemetery at 1pm on Saturday, 5th July, after receiving reports that a gravestone had fallen onto a child. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, the boy sadly died at the scene.
In a statement, the force said:
“Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this devastating time.”
“His death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be passed to HM Coroner in due course.”
Rossendale Borough Council expressed its condolences, stating:
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of a young child at Rawtenstall Cemetery. Our thoughts are with the family at this devastating time.
The council is working with all relevant agencies to understand the circumstances of this incident.”
Local leaders have also responded to the tragedy. Councillor Liz McInnes said:
“This is a terrible tragedy. My heartfelt and deepest sympathies go to the family of this poor boy. The whole of Rawtenstall is grieving.”
Rossendale and Darwen MP Andy MacNae added:
“My thoughts go out to the family and everyone affected by the tragic incident in Rawtenstall Cemetery today, which has claimed the life of a four-year-old boy.”