Three people have tragically died following a car crash in Essex on the A13.

Police, firefighters and medics rushed to the scene in Rainham shortly after 10pm on Monday. Despite their best efforts, the three people died at the scene. One other person is reported to be in hospital following the ordeal.

The catastophic crash required help from multiple forces including the Met Police and Essex Police. The incident took place close to the Lakeside junction heading towards London near Wennington. A Met Police spokesperson said: "Police were called to the A13 in Wennington Marshes, Rainham, shortly after 22.00hrs on Monday, 15 July to reports of a road traffic collision.

"Officers attended along with paramedics from the East of England Ambulance Service and the London Fire Brigade. Three vehicles were found to have been involved in a collision. Sadly, three people died at the scene. A further person was taken to hospital for treatment. Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening."

Police confirmed that a road was closed in response to the incident overnight. The incident is said to have since sparked traffic chaos on the M25. According to Southend Echo, motorists earlier faced delays between 35 to 45 minutes. The AA issued a warning and said that police are still working in the area. "Long delays due to crash investigation work on A13 Eastbound from Ferry Lane to A1306 (Wennington Interchange)," the warning said.

National Highways East posted about the crash on Twitter last night and said: "The A13 is closed westbound between the M25 (J30) and the A1306. This is due to a serious collision @EssexPoliceUK are on scene and National Highways traffic officers are assisting with road closures. This closure will likely be in place throughout the night."

In an update this morning, the agency said: "The A13 westbound has reopened between the M25 J30 and Rainham (FerryLane) following a serious collision overnight. There are 2 miles congestion causing 20 min delays above normal travel time following this incident so please allow time for delays to clear."