Tragic Early Morning Crash on A13: Woman Killed After Van Drives Wrong Way
A fatal collision struck the A13 at 2.35am on Friday, 25 November. A van, travelling the wrong way down the Essex-bound carriageway, smashed into a black Toyota Prius. The van had ignored police attempts to stop it before entering the busy road.
Young Woman Dies at Scene, Van Driver Held
A 21-year-old female passenger in the Prius was pronounced dead at the scene. Her next of kin have been informed. The 39-year-old van driver was rushed to hospital with serious injuries. He remains under medical care and has been arrested on suspicion of failing to stop for police and causing death by dangerous driving.
The Prius driver was also taken to hospital but is not believed to have serious injuries.
Investigation Launched Into Police Role
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is probing the circumstances around the crash, including Essex Police’s involvement before the collision.
Detective Sergeant Mike Rapp said: “This is a terrible incident that has resulted in the tragic death of a young woman. I’m urging anyone who was driving on the A13 near Dagenham shortly after 2.30am and witnessed the van driving the wrong way to come forward.”
“There’s footage circulating on social media. We ask anyone with images or videos to consider the grieving family before sharing. Please share any footage with police to help build a full picture of events.”
Witnesses Urged to Speak Out
If you have information, call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 020 8597 4874. You can also dial 101, tweet @MetCC quoting CAD562/25Nov, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
