An Essex family has shared their devastation after a “beautiful” mum-of-eight was killed after her car was involved in a collision with a stolen van that was being pursued by police.
Zoe Hawes, from Canvey Island, which sits at the mouth of the River Thames, was travelling to go on holiday with her husband to celebrate her 40th birthday. Her husband remains in a critical condition.
Mrs Hawes, who was also a grandmother, was killed during the collision on the M25.
The collision was with a stolen Citroen van that was being chased by the police.
A man in his 20s has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
Mrs Hawes’ family said: “Zoe was the heart of our blended family. She was a role model to everyone and the centre of our family. She was a very much loved mum, stepmum, sister, aunt and lovely young nanna.
“She was a friend to many. She was very much looking to go on holiday to celebrate her 40th with her husband.”
They added: “Sadly a holiday and birthday she didn’t get to celebrate. We are all trying to pull together as a family and are devastated to lose Zoe in this tragic way.
“We wouldn’t have changed her for the world and she leaves an enormous hole in our family that will never be filled. We love you and will miss you forever.”
Relatives have now started a GoFundMe page to help pay for her funeral, which has already received more than £6,300.
Police initially were chasing the Citroen van at around 3.40am on the M1 on Sunday, however abandoned the chase due to it being too dangerous. Later, the authorities saw the van travelling down the M25 going in the wrong direction.
Following the incident the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) began an investigation.
The IOPC said: “We are gathering and reviewing evidence as we piece together the circumstances surrounding this incident.
“This includes securing and reviewing police dashcam footage and officers’ body-worn video footage, obtaining motorway CCTV and reviewing police call logs and radio transmissions.
IOPC Regional Director Charmaine Arbouin said: “Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic incident.
“Given that police officers were pursuing one of the vehicles before the fatal collision, it’s important that we independently investigate the actions and decision-making of the officers involved.
“We will ensure that our enquiries do not impede the police investigation, and we will keep those involved regularly updated.”
Hertfordshire police said they are appealing for witnesses, information and dash cam footage.
Four vehicles were involved – the white Citroen Dispatch van, a silver DFSK 580 Glory, a silver Skoda Superb and a black Peugeot 5008.
Detective Inspector Mark Fraser, from Essex Police, said: “Our thoughts are with the loved ones of those who lost their lives in this collision. I am appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to get in touch.
“Did you see what happened or the events leading up to the collision? Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you can help.
“I also want to ask any dashcam owners who were driving in the area to check it and get in touch if you spot something that might help us.”
Anyone with information regarding the incident is being encouraged to come forward by contacting the police on 999 or by emailing Essex Police at CollisionAppeal@essex.police.uk.
