Man charged after woman in her 30s dies in Shoeburyness crash, with woman named

A woman has sadly died following a single-vehicle crash in Shoeburyness – and a man has now been charged with causing her death.

Emergency services were called to Royal Artillery Way shortly before 11.30pm on Tuesday 20 May, where it was reported a car had left the road and collided with a tree.

The passenger, a woman aged in her 30s, was rushed to hospital in a serious condition but sadly died from her injuries. Police confirmed her family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

The road was closed for over 7 hours, whilst police carried out an investigation and the vehicle was recovered.

A man was arrested at the scene. Essex Police later named him as 43-year-old Lee Rance, of Frobisher Way, Shoeburyness.

He has now been charged with causing death by dangerous driving, possession of a Class A drug, failing to stop at the scene, driving while disqualified and driving without insurance.

Rance was remanded in custody and appeared at Southend-on-Sea Magistrates’ Court on Friday 23 May.

An Essex Police spokesperson said: “An investigation is being led by our Serious Collision Investigation Unit. Anyone with information or relevant footage should contact us as soon as possible.”

Reports can be submitted via the Essex Police website at www.essex.police.uk, where a 24/7 Live Chat service is also available. Alternatively, call 101 quoting incident 1315 of 20 May.

The woman has been named locally by friends and relatives as Carly Hicks.

Collette Kerry said: “RIP Carly Hicks, my heart goes out to all the family. I’m absolutely lost for words, another beautiful soul taken way to early.”

Chloe Scott added: “When I saw the news, my heart sank. Though years have passed since we last spoke, the memories of childhood still shine bright – the laughter, the adventures we all had. You’ll always be part of those golden days. Rest in peace, my friend.”

Maxine Baddeley said: “RIP Carly, I’m so sad to hear this.”

Local resident Lucy Barret added: “This is such a devastating and preventable tragedy. It’s so very very sad. My thoughts are with the family.”