Laura Sharman 16 November 2022

Council faces prosecution following death of 6-year-old Ella Henderson

Newcastle City Council will be prosecuted following the death of six-year-old Ella Henderson, who was hit by a falling tree at school.

Ella Henderson was hit by the tree tree at Gosforth Park First School on 25 September 2020.

She died of her injures at the Royal Victoria Infirmary the following morning.

The Health Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has confirmed the council will face a charge under section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

A spokesperson for Newcastle City Council said: 'This was a tragedy and our thoughts are with Ella’s family.

'It would be inappropriate to make any further comment at this stage as legal proceedings are on-going.'

The investigation was initially led by Northumbria Police. At the time, detective inspector Steve Byrne, said: 'This was an incredibly tragic incident and our thoughts go out to Ella’s family and loved ones at this unbelievably difficult time.'

The first hearing is due to take place at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on 10 January 2023.

#Legal #Trees

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