A community continues to mourn the tragic death of a much-loved mother-of-two in a late-night collision on Royal Artillery Way in Southend.
Carly Hicks, 37, from Shoeburyness, died in hospital after sustaining critical injuries in a single-vehicle crash shortly before 11.30pm on Tuesday 20 May. Despite efforts from paramedics to save her, she sadly passed away not long after being admitted to hospital.
The crash is being investigated by Essex Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit. Officers arrested 43-year-old Lee Rance, of Frobisher Way in Shoeburyness, at the scene.
He has since been charged with multiple offences, including causing death by dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, driving without valid insurance, and possession of a Class A drug.
Carly’s devastated family have now spoken out, paying emotional tribute to her and the joy she brought into the lives of those around her. “We have been left heartbroken after our beautiful Carly lost her life,” the family said in a statement.
“She leaves behind two devastated children, whose lives will never be the same. Her loss leaves a huge hole in our family which can never be filled. Carly was a wonderful mum with a great sense of humour. She had a loving, caring personality and brought a lot of love and joy to her family and friends.”
Her funeral will take place at 2pm on 3rd July at Southend Crematorium. The funeral is open to all of Carly’s close friends and family. A live video stream is also available for those that can’t attend in person.
Tributes have poured in from friends and locals who knew Carly, describing her as a “beautiful soul” whose life was cruelly cut short.
Katie Ferguson-Beck said: “Will miss you forever Carly. You’re an auntie that can never ever be replaced – a hole in our hearts that’ll never be filled. Life won’t be the same. Family events won’t be the same. We will all make sure your send off is the best.”
Southend resident Janine Armitage shared her sorrow, saying: “I knew Carly. Such a beautiful soul gone too soon with her life cut short by that man. RIP Carly, you won’t be forgotten sweet lady.”
Charlotte Ault added: “It’s always the innocent that get their life taken. People who drink or use drugs while driving – they always seem to walk away with just a few cuts and bruises.”
Local people have expressed anger as well as grief, with many calling for harsher penalties for dangerous driving and more robust measures to keep banned drivers off the road.