Investigators have charged a suspect with multiple offences following a serious collision on the A2 near Dartford. The incident occurred at approximately 10:40 pm on Friday, February 16, 2024, on the Watling Street coastbound carriageway, between the A296 and Ebbsfleet junctions.
The collision involved three vehicles: a black Ford Fiesta, a blue Audi S3, and a blue MG HS. Tragically, a passenger in the Ford Fiesta sustained severe injuries and was airlifted to a London hospital, where she remains in a serious condition. The driver and another passenger from the Fiesta were also treated for injuries and subsequently discharged.
Following the collision, the driver of the blue Audi S3, along with his passenger, left the scene before the arrival of law enforcement patrols. Subsequently, the Kent Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) initiated an investigation into the incident.
On Tuesday, February 20, a suspect was apprehended and taken into custody. Matthew Sparkes, aged 35 and of no fixed address, was charged on Wednesday, February 21, with the following offences:
- Causing serious injury by driving dangerously
- Failing to stop following a collision where others were injured
- Failing to provide name and address or make a report at a police station following a collision where others were injured
- Driving without insurance
Sparkes was remanded in custody and appeared before Medway Magistrates’ Court later the same day. Additionally, a 25-year-old woman from Walworth, Greater London, was also arrested in connection with the incident and has been bailed pending further enquiries.
Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the collision or has any CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward if they have not yet spoken to the police. Those with information relevant to the investigation are encouraged to contact the SCIU appeals line on 01622 798538, quoting reference JW/LB/016/24. Alternatively, information can be emailed to [email protected].
Furthermore, evidence can be submitted via the public portal provided at the following link: https:///kep.uk.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/watlingstreet
