Six-year-old girl dies after tree falls on her at school

Police launch investigation after child passes away in hospital

(Google)

A six-year-old girl has died after a tree fell on her at school.

The youngster, who has not yet been named, was struck at Gosforth Park First School in Newcastle.

Emergency services, including an air ambulance, rushed to the scene shortly after 1pm on Friday but the girl passed away on Saturday morning.

Northumbria Police say an investigation has now been launched and they are working with the Health and Safety Executive.

A spokesperson for the force said on Saturday: “At 1.15pm yesterday, we received a report that a child had been struck by a falling tree at Gosforth Park First School.

“Emergency services attended the scene and the six-year-old girl was taken to hospital.

“Sadly, earlier today, the young girl passed away.

“Our officers are continuing to support her family and our thoughts are with them at this incredibly difficult time.”

Leanne Lamb, head teacher, said: “Our entire school community has been shocked and devastated by the tragic news that one of our pupils passed away during the night, as a result of injuries suffered from a falling tree in the school grounds.

“First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers are with the child’s family and friends as they come to terms with this tragic loss.

“As a school and community, we will take the time to mourn and are putting in place extra support for the staff and pupils, who are devastated by this incident.”