Investigation launched after man killed in Westcliff collision
Police appeal for information after stolen vehicle linked to fatal incident
Last updated 22nd Apr 2026
A man has died in hospital following a serious collision in Westcliff, prompting an ongoing investigation by detectives.
Officers were first called at around 7.30am on Thursday 16 April to reports of a collision in Crowstone Road, Westcliff, involving a white Mercedes C Class and a man.
The vehicle then left the area.
The 50-year-old man died in hospital after receiving immediate treatment by members of the public and efforts from emergency services.
Shortly after the collision, the Mercedes was found abandoned in Britannia Road.
Enquiries later established that the car had been stolen from an address in Sutton Road, Southend, during the early hours of Thursday 16 April, at around 1am.
An investigation has continued at pace, led by detectives from our Serious Crime Directorate.
As a result, on Saturday 18 April, James Wallace, 26, of no fixed abode, was arrested and charged with attempted murder and handling stolen goods.
He remains on remand in prison and is next due to appear at Basildon Crown Court on Monday 18 May.
Detective Inspector James Holmes, who is leading the investigation, said:
“Our thoughts remain firmly with this man’s family, who are being supported by specialist officers at this extremely difficult time.
“Despite the very swift progress in this investigation, our enquiries are very much ongoing.
“We are still keen to hear from anyone who saw the white Mercedes C Class in the Sutton Road, Crowstone Road or Britannia Road areas on the morning of Thursday 16 April, or who has any information that could help us.
“Even details that may seem insignificant could prove vital, and I would urge anyone with information to come forward via our Major Incident Public Portal.”