A tree that collapsed in an Essex park on Saturday, killing a seven-year-old girl, was reportedly held up by metal poles.
Police said a six-year-old girl was also left in a critical condition following the incident.
Three more children suffered minor injuries and received hospital treatment after the tree fell in Chalkwell Park, Southend-on-Sea, shortly before 3pm on Saturday.
Around 50 people rushed to try to lift the tree immediately.
The tree that collapsed in an Essex park on Saturday was reportedly held up by metal poles
The horror incident has raised concerns among the public, with locals revealing that metal poles propped up the tree.
Taking to social media, one person wrote: "Clearly it was too big to support its own weight and unfortunately someone's family has had to suffer the consequences."
Another added: "It should have been cut down rather than propped up…"
A third said: "Council/park owners should be covering the cost of the funeral and compensating all families involved. It's clear this tree has been a danger for quite some time."
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Essex Police continue to investigate
Social media users have also urged the council to take better care of trees in the area.
One wrote: "The council need to start maintaining all trees around Southend. As this should never have happened. My thoughts are with you all. Fly high little angel."
Essex Police continues to investigate the incident.
Members of the public have laid flowers in tribute to the seven-year-old girl.
The incident has raised questions among the public
PAGB News has contacted Southend-on-Sea City Council for comment.
Adam Ramet, 54, told the Mail that the tree support had been in place since he was a young boy.
The local business owner hailed park staff as "very dedicated", adding: "I'm sure they will be absolutely devastated."
Another local added: "The council should have done something about it we have now lost a little girl and other children have been hurt I can't imagine what the families are feeling."
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