Loughton Willingale Road: What we know so far and how you can help
A murder investigation has been launched and police are searching for a silver Ford Ka which is understood to have 'significant' damage to its front
Police have launched a murder investigation and are hunting for a silver Ford Ka following the death of a 12-year-old schoolboy in Loughton.
Officers were called to Willingale Road, near to Debden Park High School, at around 3.30pm today (Monday, December 2) following reports of a serious collision.
A number of other pupils and a 53-year-old woman were also injured.
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Helen Gascoyne, the school's head, said the community is "devastated" by the death of one of its students.
Here's what we know so far about today's tragic incident:
A 12-year-old boy was rushed to hospital following the incident, sadly he died.
There were a number of other casualties 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 23-year-old woman.
Police believe that all of the teenagers were pupils at Debden Park High School, located off Willingale Road.
The community has been devastated by the incident
Police hunt
Officers from across the county are working hard to identify the vehicle, and its driver, who failed to stop at the scene.
They are hunting a silver Ford Ka and a murder investigation has been launched.
There is thought to be significant damage to the front of the vehicle.
Officers hunting Terry Glover have arrested a 51-year-old man from Loughton on suspicion of murder after the death of a 12-year-old boy near his school.
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Detective Chief Inspector Rob Kirby of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate said: "This has been a truly shocking incident and my deepest sympathies are with all those involved.
"I would like to thank the many members of the public who have called us with information and spoken to our officers, as well as those who provided crucial medical assistance at the scene.
"I would urge anyone with information, dash cam footage, or who may have seen anything on social media that they think could be crucial, to call us on 101 and quote incident number 726 of 2 December."
Inspector Rob Brettell from Essex Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit urged the public to "urgently contact" Essex Police with any details of the car's whereabouts.
Officers from across the county are working together to try and locate the vehicle and its driver, who failed to stop at the scene.
Those who have information but wish to remain anonymous can call Crimestoppers in complete confidence on 0800 555 111 or by submitting a report through their website.
(Image: Phil Harris)
Police have warned about speculating on social media on issues which could cause further worry and upset to the community and family.
A local church, St John's in Loughton, held a mass with today's events in mind.
The church will be open tomorrow for prayer, lighting candles and if anyone needs to talk.
School statement
Debden Park High School's head Helen Gascoyne said: "As a school and a community we are devastated to say that as a result of the incident in Willingale Road this afternoon, it is with great sadness that we must report that a 12-year-old student from our school has sadly died.
"Our thoughts are with the family and all those affected. As a school we continue to work with the police supporting the ongoing investigation.
"The school will be open tomorrow with a number of counsellors on hand to support our community."
Did you know the 12-year-old victim and would you like to pay tribute? Email newsdesk@essexlive.news
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