Detectives have launched a murder investigation following the death of a man in his 20s after a fatal collision in Harlow on Saturday, 29 March.
Incident Details
Police were called to reports of a collision between a vehicle and a pedestrian near a cycle path off Momples Road at around 5:30 pm. It was reported that a silver Mitsubishi left the road, struck the man, and then drove away.
Despite the best efforts of paramedics and officers at the scene, the victim, who was from London, was pronounced dead at the scene. His family has been informed and is being supported by specialist officers.
Vehicle Abandoned and Set Alight
Shortly after the collision, the silver Mitsubishi was found abandoned and on fire at a nearby underpass at the Clock Tower Roundabout. Firefighters were called to extinguish the blaze, and the vehicle has since been forensically seized.
Potential Link to Car Theft
Detectives are investigating whether this incident is linked to the earlier theft of a black Ford Fiesta from nearby Pennymead, Harlow, reported at around 4 pm on the same day. The stolen Fiesta was later found abandoned in the Churchfield area of Harlow and has also been seized for examination.
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Investigation and Community Response
The investigation is being led by the Serious Crime Directorate, and a cordon remains in place around the collision site. Officers are conducting patrols throughout Harlow to engage with the community and address any concerns.
Detective Inspector Alison Hooper, leading the investigation, stated:
At the centre of this incident is a person who has lost their life in terrible circumstances. We are supporting a grieving family. I have a dedicated team working hard to establish the sequence of events which led to this fatal collision, and this investigation is making progress.”
She continued:
“We’re particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have seen the vehicles in question in the Harlow area in the hours leading up to this collision. I appreciate this is a very serious incident which will cause concern in Harlow, but I’d ask that the public refrain from any unhelpful speculation which could cause further upset.”
Appeal for Information
Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward. A dedicated public portal has been set up to provide information quickly:
mipp.police.uk/operation/4201020125R42-PO2
You can also submit a report via the Essex Police website or use their online Live Chat service, available 24/7.
If you prefer to remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or via their website.
This tragic incident has shocked the local community, and detectives are committed to establishing the full circumstances of what happened. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.