Five emergency service workers were rushed to hospital with serious injuries after being struck by a van while responding to an overnight collision in Essex.
Early Morning Collision Escalates
The incident began just after midnight, at around 12.15am, when emergency services were called to the A130 following a single-vehicle collision involving a Nissan X-Trail.
While paramedics and a group of off-duty police officers stopped to assist at the scene, a second, devastating collision occurred. A white Ford Transit van collided with the group of responders, leaving five people injured.
Serious Injuries and Major Road Closure
Two paramedics and three police officers were taken to hospital for treatment. One officer and one paramedic sustained serious injuries and remained in hospital following the incident.
The A130 was closed in both directions for several hours between the Sadlers Farm roundabout and the A1245, causing significant disruption. The road did not reopen until shortly before 11am. Three vehicles, including an ambulance, were later recovered from the scene.
Three Men Arrested in Connection
Essex Police have since arrested three men in connection with the secondary collision. The force confirmed the following arrests:
- A 23-year-old man from Canvey on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, theft of a motor vehicle, and driving while unfit through drink or drugs.
- A 29-year-old man from Westcliff on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, theft of a motor vehicle, possession of a Class B or C drug, and being in charge of a vehicle while unfit.
- A 39-year-old man from Canvey on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drink or drugs.
All three remain in police custody as inquiries continue.
Police Appeal for Information
Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin of Essex Police said: 'The thoughts of everyone at Essex Police are with the emergency workers injured while responding to this incident - both they and their families are being provided with support from the force.'
He stressed the investigation is active and urged the public not to speculate. He also issued a direct appeal: 'If the public have any information - or crucially dashcam footage of the vehicles involved - that they believe will assist our investigation, please get in touch.'
