Man convicted of causing drug fuelled crash that killed woman in Southend
The vehicle collided with a tree, resulting in the death of 37-year-old passenger Carly Hicks
A 43-year-old man has been convicted of causing a fatal crash in Southend while disqualified from driving and under the influence of drugs.
Lee Rance, from Shoeburyness, was found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving, possession of a firearm while prohibited, and two counts of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.
The incident happened late at night on 20th May last year when Rance ignored his driving ban and used drugs before getting behind the wheel of his Mini Cooper on the A1159.
A British Transport Police officer noticed the car speeding and attempted to stop Rance but did not pursue when the driver accelerated.
Soon after, the officer discovered the vehicle had collided with a tree.
Rance’s front‑seat passenger, Carly Hicks, was taken to hospital in a critical condition, where she sadly later died.
Officers recovered drugs including cocaine and heroin, while a firearm bearing Rance’s fingerprint was found stashed in a carrier bag behind the driver’s seat.
A mobile phone recovered from the car and linked to Rance contained messages consistent with drug supply.
Further tests found a cocktail of drugs in his system, including cocaine, morphine, diazepam, methadone and prescription medication.
Following the trial, Rance will face sentencing at Basildon Crown Court on 30th April.
Carly Hicks's family shared a heartfelt statement describing their devastating loss and Carly's qualities, including her kindness, strength, and impact on those who knew her.
"“The loss of our beautiful Carly will leave a hole in our hearts that cannot be healed, and life will never be the same.
“Some of Carly’s best qualities were her ability to see the good in others and her kindness, even if others did not deserve it.
“She had an infectious smile and a distinctive laugh you could recognise anywhere.
“Carly was taken from us prematurely as she sadly gave her trust and kindness to the wrong person, and that ultimately led to the end of her life.
“She had suffered a great amount of bereavement in her life. Despite this, Carly was an incredible mother to her two beautiful daughters, who now have to navigate life without her.
“Carly was a beautiful soul who left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of meeting her.
“She was a strong, irreplaceable member of our family, and we will miss her contagious smile and zest for life.”
Detective Sergeant Sam Nason, of our Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said:
“Rance inexplicably tried to deny his horrific offending in this case, prolonging the agony of all those who loved Carly and want to see justice done in her name.
“Rance made a series of despicable decisions that night, which not only cost Carly her life but also risked the lives of other road users.
“These guilty verdicts fairly reflect the catastrophic harm caused by his actions. My thoughts today are with Carly’s family and friends, who continue to suffer as a result of Rance’s behaviour.
“Police first responders and ambulance service colleagues worked incredibly hard at the scene as they tried to save Carly’s life, and I would like to pay tribute to them.”