Paramedic and police officer seriously hurt while attending crash

Three men have been arrested after paramedics and off-duty police were struck while attending the scene of a crash in Essex.

The emergency services were initially called after a single-vehicle collision involving a white Nissan X-Trail on the A130 in South Benfleet at about 00:15 GMT.

While at the scene, five emergency responders were struck in a second crash involving a white Ford Transit van. Two of them – a paramedic and a police officer – remain in a serious condition in hospital.

An investigation has been launched, with police appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward.

Those being questioned by police are:

• 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 Class C drug, and being in charge of a vehicle while unfit through drink or drugs
• A 39-year-old man, from Canvey, on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drink or drugs.

Essex Police said the paramedic and police officer suffered serious injuries.

It said the crashes happened on the southbound carriageway of the A130, between the Rayleigh Spur and Sadlers Farm roundabouts.

Officers closed the A130 between Sadlers Farm and the A1245 Bonville’s Roundabout leading to the A13, while it carried out an investigation.

The roads have since been reopened.

Ch Supt Morgan Cronin 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.”

Policing minister Sarah Jones said her thoughts were with the officers, their families, colleagues and witnesses to the incident.

“I hope they make full recoveries and inquiries quickly determine the cause,” she added in a post on X.