The parents of seven-year-old Leonna Ruka have paid a heartfelt tribute to their 'pride and joy' one year after a tragic tree collapse at Chalkwell Park in Southend claimed her life. Leonna was visiting relatives on June 28 last year when a tree came down, pinning her and several other children beneath it. She was rushed to hospital but died from her injuries.
Details of the Tragedy
The incident occurred at Chalkwell Park, a popular green space in Southend-on-Sea. Alongside Leonna, a six-year-old girl was hospitalised in critical condition but has since been discharged. Three other children sustained minor injuries. The tree collapse prompted an investigation by Southend City Council, which found the tree had been inspected in 2022 and showed no visible defects.
Parents' Heartfelt Words
Leonna's parents, Leo and Floreta Ruka, released a statement saying they are 'still living the nightmare of the day.' They said: '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.'
Remembering Leonna
The couple described their daughter as 'an extraordinary person whose kindness, loving heart, caring nature and positive energy brightened the lives of everyone around her.' They added: '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. 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.'
Community Response
The tragedy shocked the local community, with many leaving floral tributes at the park. A fundraiser was launched to support the family, raising over £10,000. Southend City Council stated it has since reviewed tree safety protocols and increased inspections in parks across the city.
