ESSEX POLICE HAVE launched a murder investigation into a fatal collision on Willingale Road in Loughton earlier today in which a 12-year-old boy died.

Debden Park High School released a statement to say that the boy was a pupil at the school. “Our thoughts are with the family and all those affected,” the school said.

A statement from the Essex Police said that the other teenagers were also injured in the incident, are also believed to be pupils of the school.

“A number of other casualties were reported, but none are believed to be life-changing or life-threatening. They were either treated at scene or were taken to hospital following the incident.

These include: two 15-year-old boys, one 13-year-old boy, one 16-year-old girl and a 53-year-old woman.

Inspector for Essex Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit Rob Brettell said that the police are trying to locate “a Silver Ford KA which is likely to have damage to the front of the car”.

“This is likely to be a prolonged and serious investigation we urgently need the public’s assistance and help [with] any dashcam, CCTV or information.”

Essex Police said in their statement that the driver “failed to stop at the scene”.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Essex Police on 101 and quote incident number 0726.