Tribute to 'kind-hearted, special' schoolboy, 15, killed by falling tree in Stafford park

A 15-year-old schoolboy who died after being struck by a tree in a Stafford park has been described as “kind-hearted and “a truly special young man” by his former headteacher, as an investigation into the circumstances is launched.

The community was left in shock after Brodan Dubickas was fatally injured in the town’s Holmcroft Park on Saturday evening (May 2).

The Sir Graham Balfour School Year 10 pupil was previously a pupil at the borough’s Tillington Manor Primary School, in Young Avenue.

Tillington Manor’s head Kelly Brockhurst posted on the school’s Facebook page on Sunday: “It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I am writing to share the devastating news that Brodan Dubickas, a former pupil of Tillington Manor and now a Year 10 student at Sir Graham Balfour School, tragically lost his life in an accident at Holmcroft Park yesterday evening.

“Brodan will be remembered so fondly by all who knew him.

“He was a truly special young man. Kind-hearted, respectful and full of warmth. He approached school life with curiosity and determination, and his gentle nature and positive spirit left a lasting impression on both staff and pupils alike.

“It is incredibly difficult to comprehend that a life with so much promise has been cut so short, and our whole community is deeply saddened by this loss.

“Although Brodan had moved on from Tillington Manor, he will always remain a valued part of our school family. We know that many within our community will be feeling this loss deeply, and our thoughts are with everyone who knew and cared for him.

“We will look to honour and remember Brodan in a way that reflects the impact he had on our school and community, and in liaison with his family, at the right time.

“We understand that this news will be upsetting and we are here to support any children or families who may be affected or witness to yesterday's tragic event. I have contacted the relevant support services who will be present at school on Tuesday for pupils who need this. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you feel your child may need additional support during this time.

“Our heartfelt condolences go to Brodan’s parents, his family, his friends, and the wider community. They remain very much in our thoughts at this incredibly difficult time. With deep sadness.”

Stafford Borough Council spokesman William Conaghan said: "Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones in what must be the most terrible time for them. We have been liaising with the police and the Health and Safety Executive and will assist them where we can in their ongoing investigation.”

An online fundraiser set up in memory of the teen has so far raised more than £19,000.

In October 2019 Neville Scattergood, aged 58, from Stafford, died after being struck by a falling tree on the Isabel Trail off Eccleshall Road also prompting a safety probe.