Four dead after car hits Colchester building in 'tragic' early hours crash

Four people have died after a car hit a building in an early hours collision in a city centre.

The crash in Colchester closed Magdalen St for the day on Saturday.

Police said they were called just before 4.40am and emergency services attended but that all four people died at the scene.

Their families have been told and are being supported by specialist officers. The four have not yet been named.

People in the area told ITV News Anglia that the car had been left almost unrecognisable by the impact and they were deeply distressed by what had happened.

Leon Lucas, who lives opposite the crash site, said: "It's crazy and upsetting, there are no words for what happened other than heartbreaking.

"From what I've seen of the car they must have died on impact. There wasn't much left of the car - it was unrecognisable."

Neighbour Andy Carey said he had heard a loud bang and when he looked out of the window in the early hours he had seen the car, but did not initially think it was that serious.

"The next thing we heard was the police and the ambulance arrive, and the fire brigade to cut them out, and my neighbour screaming and shouting up and down the road.

"I think it's terrible that four people have lost their lives, especially young, and I feel so sorry that four people have died here instead of going home to their families."

Police said the road had now reopened but some buildings were still being assessed for structural damage.

A large pile of bricks can be seen outside Dusty's second hand shop, which the car ploughed into. Metal fencing has been put up to protect the site.

Flowers have been left at the scene, one bouquet with just the word Why? written on it.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Hooper said: “My thoughts, and those of everyone at Essex Police, is with the friends and families of the four people who died this morning.

“I want to thank the businesses and residents in Magdalen Street area for their support and understanding today in what has been a really difficult and tragic situation.

“I always want to pay tribute to emergency services personnel who have worked diligently, professionally, and compassionately to ensure the dignity of those who have died.

“Our inquiries to establish what led up to the collision are ongoing and I need anyone with information to contact us.”If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us."

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