An Essex Police officer has died after being involved in a car crash while responding to an emergency.
He was travelling on the A12 dual carriageway near Ingatestone just after midday on Wednesday.
The force said no other vehicles were involved in the incident and the officer had passed away.
Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington said the “thoughts and prayers” of the “entire Essex Police family” were with those who knew the man, who he described as a “professional and courageous colleague”.
“He was a dedicated professional who died doing his job – protecting and serving the people of Essex. I will always be grateful for his service,” the Chief Constable continued.
“I also want to thank the public who were affected by the collision for their patience, understanding, and cooperation with officers and our emergency service colleagues who responded to the collision.
Mr Harrington also confirmed the officer’s family and colleagues were being supported at this “extremely difficult time”.
Following the incident, the A12 road remained closed all throughout Wednesday so that investigations could be conducted.
The Chief Constable requested people not to speculate about the collision and the circumstances surrounding it.
At Essex Police headquarters in Chelmsford, the flag was raised at half-mast at as a sign of respect.
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