A seven-year-old girl was killed by a falling tree in a park in Essex on Saturday while on a day out with her family from London, it has been revealed.
Essex Police were called to Chalkwell Park in Southend-on-Sea just before 3pm and have since cordoned off the area.
Another girl, aged six, was also trapped under the tree as it fell and remains in critical condition in hospital. Three other children are being treated for minor injuries.
One witness told The Sun: “Clearly they were a family coming for a day out. I don't know for sure but I think the mother was with a sister and maybe another mother with a child who was involved.
“I got the impression they were a family and I think they were maybe Turkish origin.”
Assistant Chief Constable Lucy Morris said: “Our thoughts continue to remain with all of those impacted by the awful events of yesterday. Updates will be provided on the condition of the little girl who remains in hospital.
“I know many will be thinking of her today and she is in the right place, receiving urgent and around-the-clock care surrounded by her family. Sadly, her condition is still very serious at this time.
“We are continuing an investigation into the circumstances around the collapse of the tree. These inquiries are being led by Essex Police at this stage.”
A witness said he would “never forget the screams” as the tree came crashing down, while locals said metal supports had been used to prop up the old cedar tree for at least a decade.
