Murder Probe Launched After Armed Vehicle Robbery in Harlow
Essex Police have kicked off a murder investigation following a chilling armed robbery involving a vehicle in Harlow.
Body Found Near Harefield Church
A section of Momples Road, close to Burgoyne Hatch and The Purple Emperor pub, has been sealed off. Police found a body covered up along a cycle footpath, after the victim was reportedly mowed down by a van outside Harefield Church.
The road closure began around 7:00 pm last night, bringing traffic in the area to a standstill. The cordon also blocks part of the cycle track leading to Quarry Spring as forensic teams comb the scene.
Specialist Teams Called In
Detectives from the murder squad are on site, supported by specialist crash collision investigators. Evidence suggests the van was deliberately driven at the victim before their death.
Yellow crime scene cones are placed near a hedgerow by the church as officers continue gathering evidence.
Heavy Police Presence & Public Appeal
Uniformed officers, plainclothes detectives, and forensic teams remain in force at the scene. Essex Police stress the investigation is still in its early stages and urge the public to steer clear of Momples Road while inquiries continue.
“We are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident that occurred on Momples Road. A section of the road remains cordoned off, and we ask the public to avoid the area while we carry out our inquiries.” — Essex Police Source
Community Concern and How to Help
The incident has rattled local residents, with many spotting both marked and unmarked police vehicles alongside forensic officers in protective suits examining the area.
Police are urging anyone who witnessed the events or who has dashcam footage from the time to come forward immediately.
- Contact Essex Police on 101
- Or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
Further updates will follow as Essex Police work to crack this shocking case.