Tragedy on M25: Woman Dies After Dartford QE2 Bridge Incident
Commuters faced chaos this morning as a police incident shut down the M25’s Queen Elizabeth II (QE2) Bridge. One lane remains closed clockwise, causing severe delays from junction 31 (A1306) to junction 1A (A206).
All Lanes Briefly Closed Amid Police Search
Between 4am and 5am, all four lanes on the QE2 Bridge were closed, sparking heavy gridlock. Police responded to concerns for a woman’s welfare on the Dartford Crossing. A search by HM Coastguard teams recovered a woman from the water nearby.
Woman Pronounced Dead, Police Investigate
Tragically, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene despite rescue attempts. Essex Police confirmed the death is currently treated as non-suspicious. A file is now being prepared for the coroner.
“We were called to concerns for the welfare of a woman on the Dartford Crossing bridge, shortly before 4am this morning (Tuesday 11 July). Following a search by our HM Coastguard colleagues, a woman was recovered from the water nearby. Sadly, despite the best efforts of all involved, she was pronounced deceased. Her death is being treated as non-suspicious and a file is being prepared for the coroner.” – Essex Police spokesperson
Ongoing Delays and Driver Advice
National Highways reports that one lane remains closed with police still on site. Traffic is slow and motorists are urged to plan alternative routes and allow extra travel time.
- Expect delays clockwise between J31 A1306 and J1A A206 on the M25
- Stay updated with live traffic reports
- Exercise patience and caution near the QE2 Bridge
Authorities are working to reopen lanes and restore traffic flow as quickly as possible.
