An 18-year-old woman from Southend-on-Sea has died after falling from a small loading vehicle while it was being driven around Chalkwell Park in the early hours of 13 June, a coroner has been told.
Incident and injuries
Opening proceedings at Essex Coroner's Court, area coroner Michelle Brown said the woman sustained a severe head injury at about 00:30 BST on 13 June. She was taken to the Royal London Hospital and died there on 18 June at 19:38.
The coroner described the vehicle involved as a compact articulated loader. She said those present were not employed to drive it and characterised their activity as essentially joyriding.
Police response and arrests
Essex Police have arrested two teenagers in connection with the incident. An 18-year-old man from Westcliff-on-Sea and a 17-year-old boy from Leigh-on-Sea were held on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. Both remain on bail to September while inquiries continue.
Detectives have appealed for witnesses, saying there were a significant number of people in the park at the time and asking anyone with information or footage to come forward.
Family reaction
"Tallulah always lived her best life, had a beautiful soul and life will never be the same without her."
The coroner heard a statement from the girl's mother. Friends who have spoken publicly described her as kind-hearted and recalled memories from childhood.
Next steps and suspended inquest
At the request of Essex Police, the coroner suspended the inquest for four months to allow the investigation to progress. The suspension means a full determination on cause and circumstance will be deferred until the police inquiries are complete.
- Date of incident: Night of 13 June (around 00:30 BST)
- Date of death: 18 June (19:38)
- Location: Chalkwell Park, Southend-on-Sea
- Arrests: 18-year-old man (Westcliff-on-Sea), 17-year-old boy (Leigh-on-Sea) — both on bail
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Vehicle | Compact articulated loader (small green lifting machine) |
| Coroner | Michelle Brown, Essex Coroner's Court |
| Investigation status | Inquest suspended for four months to allow police investigations |
This incident has raised concerns locally about machines being taken onto public open spaces. Chalkwell Park is a well-used green space in Southend-on-Sea, frequented by residents and families. The investigation will determine whether criminal charges are appropriate and whether any further measures are needed to prevent similar occurrences.
Anyone who was in Chalkwell Park on the night of 12-13 June, witnessed the event or has mobile phone footage that could assist the investigation is asked to contact Essex Police through their non-emergency number or via the force website.
Further updates will follow as inquiries progress and the coroner reconvenes the inquest.
