The family of a 15-year-old boy who tragically died after being struck by a falling tree in a Stafford park have expressed their profound grief and shared heartfelt tributes to his memory. Brodan Dubickas was playing with friends in Holmcroft Park when the accident occurred on the evening of May 2. Despite the prompt response of emergency services, Brodan could not be revived.
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Staffordshire Police have confirmed the identity of the young victim, while tributes have flooded in from family, friends, and the community. In a statement, Brodan’s family described him as a remarkable young man whose life was unjustly cut short. “He was tragically and unfairly taken from us while out playing with his friends in the park,” they stated, highlighting his kindness, generosity, and infectious sense of humour.
Brodan was known for his passion for pool and football, balancing both pursuits with time dedicated to family and friends. His family remarked that he played pool competitively at least four nights a week for local teams like the Luck Penny and Staffordshire Bull ‘A’, while also actively participating in football, both as a player for Stafford Falcons and as a referee on weekends.
Educationally, Brodan was a student at Sir Graham Balfour School, having previously attended Tillington Manor Primary School. Headteacher K Brockhurst expressed deep sorrow over the loss of such a vibrant member of the school community. “Brodan will be remembered so fondly by all who knew him,” Brockhurst shared on social media, commending Brodan’s qualities of respectfulness, warmth, and determination.
The headteacher continued, stating it is difficult to grasp how someone with so much potential could be taken away so early. “As a community, we are deeply saddened by this loss,” Brockhurst added. He emphasised that although Brodan had moved on from Tillington Manor, he would always be regarded as a valued part of their extended school family.
Brodan is survived by his parents and three younger siblings. His family conveyed the devastating impact of his loss, stating, “As parents, our lives have been shattered and will never be the same.” They expressed the unbearable pain of losing a child, highlighting the tragedy of a life filled with promise that will now go unrealised.
In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been created to support Brodan’s family, raising over £28,000 in just a few days. The family expressed their gratitude to the community for the outpouring of support and tributes during this difficult time. “Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories,” they reflected, concluding their statement with a message that resonates with many who are mourning Brodan’s untimely passing.
Residents of Stafford have also come together in remembrance of Brodan, with discussions about his kindness and the positive impact he had on those around him. The accident has sparked conversations about safety in public spaces, particularly concerning trees in parks, and the importance of regular assessments and maintenance.
As the community navigates through this devastating event, tributes continue to highlight Brodan’s legacy of joy and kindness, ensuring that he will be remembered fondly by all who were fortunate enough to have known him. The sense of loss will linger, but the memories created will serve as a reminder of the light he brought into the lives of many.