Woman Dies After Van Drives Wrong Way on A13 in Early Morning Horror Crash
Tragedy struck just after 2.30am on Friday, 25 November when a van barreled the wrong way down the Essex-bound A13 and smashed into a black Toyota Prius.
Van Driver Flees Police Before Fatal Collision
The 39-year-old van driver ignored Essex Police orders to stop before entering the motorway in the wrong direction. The resulting crash left a 21-year-old woman, a passenger in the Prius, dead at the scene. Her grieving family have been informed.
The van driver was rushed to hospital with serious injuries and has been arrested on suspicion of failing to stop for police and causing death by dangerous driving.
The Prius driver also went to hospital but is not thought to be seriously hurt.
Police Appeal for Witnesses and Video Footage
Detective Sergeant Mike Rapp, leading the investigation, said:
“This is a terrible incident that has resulted in the tragic death of a young woman. I am appealing for anyone who was driving on the A13 in the Dagenham area shortly after 2.30am and saw the van driving the wrong way to get in touch.”
He also urged anyone with footage of the crash circulating on social media to consider the victim’s family feelings before sharing. The police want any images or videos to help piece together exactly what happened.
How to Help the Investigation
- Call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 020 8597 4874
- Ring 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting CAD562/25Nov
- Provide anonymous info to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
The Independent Office for Police Conduct will also be investigating Essex Police’s involvement before the crash.
