Police in Essex have arrested two individuals following an incident involving a small articulated loading vehicle that left a teenage girl in critical condition. The arrests were made on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
Incident Details
Authorities responded to a report in the Chalkwell Park area of Southend-on-Sea around 12:30 a.m. on Saturday. According to an Essex police spokesperson, a group had taken unauthorized control of the vehicle, and the girl sustained significant injuries during the incident.
The spokesperson stated: “A group was reported to have taken unauthorised control of a small articulated loading vehicle. The girl is believed to have been involved in an incident with the vehicle and sustained significant injuries.”
Arrests and Investigation
An 18-year-old man from Westcliff and a 17-year-old boy from Leigh-on-Sea were taken into custody for questioning. They remain in police custody on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. The girl’s family is being supported as she remains hospitalized in a critical condition.
A cordon remains in place at the scene as officers continue their inquiries. Paramedics promptly attended and transported the girl to the hospital.
Appeal for Witnesses
Police are appealing for witnesses and any video footage of the incident. “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 urgently need to hear from anyone with information or footage,” the spokesperson added.
