Leonna Ruka was visiting family in the area on Saturday, where she travelled to Chalkwell Park to enjoy the warm summer weather.
Shortly before 3pm, a tree in the park partially collapsed, with several children caught beneath it, including Leonna.
Leonna was taken on to hospital with serious injuries where she died. Essex Police continue to provide support to her family.
A six-year-old girl remains in hospital in a critical condition and three other children received minor injuries.
Leonna’s family have since released a statement as well as a photo of their daughter to the police as they paid tribute to their daughter who “had a heart full of love.”
They said: “It is with broken hearts and unimaginable pain that we share the devastating loss of our beloved daughter Leonna – our beautiful, bright, and loving little girl, taken from us far too soon.
“Leonna was more than just a child – she was a light in our lives and in the lives of everyone who had the joy of meeting her.
“She was an intelligent and curious soul, full of energy and creativity.
“A little girl who was always exploring, always asking questions, always dreaming.
“She had a heart full of love and a mind full of endless ideas.”
She was also described as a “funny” and “kind” girl who brought happiness whether she went and whoever she met.
They added: “From the moment she walked into a room, she would light it up.
“She had this rare gift of making everyone feel special and loved. There was something truly unique and unforgettable about her.
“Every person she met was left with only beautiful impressions and a warm feeling in their heart.
“She was the kind of girl who gave love without asking for anything in return.
“She was perfect – too perfect for a world that can be so cruel and unfair.
“Leonna had so many dreams – dreams that now remain unfinished.
“Our hearts ache knowing how much life she had ahead of her, how much joy she could have brought to this world.
“We will never stop wondering who she would have become, but we will forever carry who she was.”
They took a moment to thank family, friends community and those who stood with them in Southend for their support.
They explained: “Your kindness, your prayers, and your presence have meant more than we could ever express. In our deepest sorrow, you reminded us that we are not alone.
“We are incredibly grateful for every candle lit, every flower placed, every tear shared in her memory.
“The outpouring of love for our daughter has brought us comfort in ways we never imagined possible.
“As we try to navigate this unimaginable pain, we kindly ask for privacy.
“This is a time of deep mourning and reflection for our family.
“We need space to grieve, to remember our precious Leonna, and to begin the slow and painful process of healing.
“Leonna will live forever in our hearts – in every laugh, every sunbeam, every act of kindness we see in the world. We were so lucky to have had her, even if only for a short time.
“Thank you for holding her in your hearts.”
This is a breaking news story. More to follow.
