By Peter Omopo
Three men have been arrested after paramedics and an off-duty police officer were seriously injured while responding to a road traffic accident on the A130 in South Benfleet, Essex.
The incident occurred shortly after midnight when emergency services were called to the southbound carriageway of the A130, near the Sadlers Farm roundabout, following a crash involving a white Nissan X-Trail at about 12:15am. While responders were attending the scene, a second collision involving a white Ford Transit van took place, striking emergency personnel.
Five emergency crew members were taken to hospital following the second crash. Essex Police confirmed that one paramedic and one police officer remain in hospital with serious injuries.
Police said three men are currently being questioned in connection with the incident. A 23-year-old man from Canvey has been arrested 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 was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, theft of a motor vehicle, possession of a Class B or Class C drug, and being in charge of a vehicle while unfit through drink or drugs. A 39-year-old man from Canvey was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drink or drugs.
The crashes occurred between the Rayleigh Spur and Sadlers Farm roundabouts. The A130 was closed between Sadlers Farm and the A1245 Bonville’s Roundabout, leading to the A13, to allow for investigation, but has since reopened.
Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin said the thoughts of Essex Police were with the injured emergency workers and their families. He added that support was being provided to those affected.
Essex Police have appealed to members of the public who witnessed the incident or who may have dashcam footage to come forward as investigations continue.
