Tributes have been pouring in after an 18-year-old woman died following an incident at a park in Southend. Essex Police confirmed the teenager passed away after being seriously injured in an incident involving a vehicle on June 13.
Incident Details
Police were called to the Chalkwell Park area at around 12:30 AM on June 13 following reports that a group of people had taken “unauthorised control” of a small articulated loading vehicle. The woman was taken to hospital but later died from her injuries.
An 18-year-old man from Westcliff and a 17-year-old boy from Leigh-on-Sea were arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. They have been released on bail until September.
Police Appeal
Essex Police have urged anyone with information to come forward, noting that there were a “large number” of young people in the area at the time of the incident. In a statement on June 19, the force said: “We know there were a large number of young people in the area at the time, and we believe some may have witnessed what happened. We need anyone who has information and who we’ve not already spoken with to come forward.”
Information can be reported via Essex Police’s website, quoting incident 39 of June 13, or anonymously at crimestoppers-uk.org, or on 0800 555 111.
Social Media Tributes
Many people have taken to social media to express their sadness. One person wrote on Facebook: “So devastating for all involved. My thoughts are with the girl's family & friends.” Another said: “So sad my thought are with her family xxx.” A further person commented: “God bless her, thoughts with her family and friends.”
Officers are supporting the woman’s family and inquiries are continuing, the force added.
