Posted by Chinenye on Wed 15th Jul, 2026 - tori.ng
A young footballer’s life has been cut short after a heartbreaking road accident left a community in mourning.
(11-year-old George. Photo by The Sun)
Tributes have poured in for a keen 11-year-old footballer who tragically passed away after being struck by a lorry on a quiet country road.
George Dennis was rushed to hospital after being hit by the heavy goods vehicle on Epping Road, Chipping Ongar, Essex, at around 4:20pm on Friday.
Despite the efforts of medical personnel, George was sadly pronounced d£ad in hospital.
A fundraiser has since been launched to support the young boy's family following the tragedy, with tributes describing George as "one of a kind, a shining light, kind, caring, beautiful and far too precious."
His former football club, Ongar Juniors, released a statement saying: "It is with immense sadness that we share the heartbreaking news that our former and recently returning player, George, tragically lost his life in a road traffic accident.
George was a talented footballer, a natural leader, and a much-loved member of the Ongar Juniors family.
Known affectionately as 'Twinkle Toes', he will be remembered for his wonderful ability, his huge smile, and the joy he brought to his teammates and coaches.
Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with George's family, friends, and everyone affected by this unimaginable loss."
A 48-year-old man from Derbyshire was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing serious injuries by dangerous driving.
He was subsequently released on bail until September while police continued their investigations, before being re-arrested on suspicion of causing d£ath by dangerous driving, according to officers.
A police spokesperson said at the time: "Officers investigating a fatal collision in Ongar continue to ask for witnesses and dash cam footage.
We were called at around 4.20pm on Friday 10 July to a collision involving a lorry and a child at Epping Road.
The child sustained serious injuries and was taken to hospital where, sadly, he died. His family are being supported by specialist officers.
"The lorry driver was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing serious injuries by dangerous driving.
The 48-year-old man from Derbyshire has been further arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
He has been released on bail until mid-September while our investigation continues.
The road was closed whilst we carried out enquiries at the scene.
"The investigation is being led by officers in the Serious Collision Investigation Unit who continue to appeal for witnesses and anyone driving in the vicinity at the time who may have captured footage on dash cam, to contact them.
If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us."