Accident Chalkwell Park Today – Several Injured After Tree Falls in Southend’s Chalkwell Park – Emergency Services Respond to Serious Incident
A peaceful afternoon at Chalkwell Park in Southend, Essex, turned into a scene of chaos and concern after a tree unexpectedly fell, injuring several people and prompting a major emergency response. The incident, first reported shortly before 3:00 PM this afternoon, has drawn the attention of Essex Police, East of England Ambulance Service, and Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, all of whom rushed to the park to manage the developing situation.
According to Essex Police, a “number of casualties” have been confirmed, though the exact number and severity of injuries remain unverified as emergency crews continue to assess the scene. Witnesses in the area described a loud cracking sound followed by screams as the large tree came crashing down, striking multiple people who were enjoying the park, which is a popular spot for families, walkers, and children, especially on warmer days.
Emergency personnel, including paramedics, firefighters, and uniformed officers, were seen working diligently around the fallen tree, tending to the injured, securing the scene, and coordinating transportation to nearby hospitals. Air ambulances were also reportedly dispatched to provide rapid evacuation for those in critical condition.
A spokesperson for Essex Police issued a formal statement just after the incident, saying:
“We remain on the scene of a serious incident at Chalkwell Park. Officers, alongside ambulance and fire service colleagues, are responding. We were alerted shortly before 3pm to reports of a tree falling in the park. There have been a number of casualties and our work is ongoing. We would please ask the public to avoid this area while this work continues. Updates will be issued as soon as possible.”
Authorities have since cordoned off the affected section of Chalkwell Park, urging members of the public to stay awayto allow emergency services space to operate effectively and to ensure public safety. Investigations are underway to determine what caused the tree to fall — whether due to structural weakness, recent weather conditions, or other environmental factors.
Local residents have taken to social media expressing shock and concern, many sending thoughts and prayers to those injured. “It’s horrifying — you don’t expect something like this on a sunny day in the park,” said one nearby resident. Others have praised the swift and coordinated response by emergency services, with several injured people receiving aid within minutes of the call.
Chalkwell Park is known for its beautiful tree-lined walkways, open spaces, and children’s play areas, and it is especially busy during the summer months. Local councils have previously carried out routine tree inspections, but this incident may prompt a broader review of tree safety protocols across public parks in the region.
As this situation continues to unfold, Essex Police have promised to release further information as soon as it is available. The community is being urged to remain calm, avoid speculation, and continue cooperating with authorities.
Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information is encouraged to contact Essex Police directly or via their non-emergency reporting channels.
