Man dies in A12 pile up

A 73 YEAR OLD man died in a collision on the A12 on Wednesday, 24th January. The collision, which involved a number of vehicles, happened on the eastbound carriageway of the A12, between Ruckholt Road E11 and Whipps Cross.

The emergency services attended the scene of the accident and the pensioner was declared dead at the scene. His next of kin have been informed and formal identification should take place shortly. A post mortem will be held in due course.

The collision is being investigated by detectives from the Metropolitan Police Roads and Transport Policing Command.

Initial information is that the incident began when two vehicles collided, causing damage but no injuries. The two drivers exchanged details and left the scene, but a tail back of traffic had built up.

A white X6 BMW Coupe, registration OV6GYJ, then collided with four vehicles in the tailback, ending up hitting the central reservation. The driver abandoned the car and ran off.

Two vehicles hit by the BMW – a Porsche and a Range Rover – left the scene before police arrived. Two other vehicles, a Ford Mondeo and a Peugeot, remained at the scene.

The driver of the Ford Mondeo moved his car to the side of the road and tried to change his wheel. While he was doing this, he felt unwell. The emergency services did help him, but he died shortly afterwards.

Detective Sergeant Jeff Edwards of the Metropolitan Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit said, “This was a very serious collision involving a number of vehicles, which has sadly resulted in a man losing his life. Whilst we continue to speak to witnesses and will be reviewing CCTV from the area it is important we trace the occupants of the BMW who fled the scene. The drivers of the other vehicles involved have all been traced and are assisting us with our enquiries. I would encourage the driver of the BMW to come forward as soon as possible.”

•If you were in the tailback and saw the collision and the occupant(s) leaving the scene, particularly if you have any pictures or video recording, you are asked to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit at Chadwell Heath on 020-8597 4874. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800-555 111, where you can give information anonymously.

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