Tributes paid to teenager killed by falling tree as he played with friends

A teenager who died after being hit by a falling tree while playing in a park was "truly was the best of us", his shattered family have said

Brodan Dubickas, a year 10 pupil, died at the scene after a tree fell on him at Holmcroft Road in Stafford on Saturday.

A tribute from his family released by Staffordshire Police said he had been "tragically and unfairly taken from us while out playing with his friends in the park".

"He truly was the best of us. His kindness and generosity were unmatched, and he lit up a room with his humour and his smile," they said.

"As parents, our lives have been shattered and will never be the same. The pain is unbearable, and the hole that has been left can never be filled."

His former school, Tillington Manor Primary School, said the teenager would be "remembered so fondly by all who knew him".

The statement continued: "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."

Paramedics, police and an air ambulance had been called to the scene shortly before 6.30pm but said nothing could be done to save him.

Brodan was also an under 15s player at Stafford Falcons Football Club.

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The club that they were "devastated" by the loss in a statement on Sunday.

It said: "Brodan, a popular young man, was an important part of Stafford Falcons for several seasons and also an up and coming referee.

"We are sure that everyone of you extends their deepest sympathy to his family and friends.

"Football is a place we can all come together at a time like this.

"Brodan will never be forgotten."

(c) Sky News 2026: Tributes paid to teenager killed by falling tree as he played with friends