Commuters experienced significant disruption on the M25 this morning after a tragic incident on the Queen Elizabeth II (QE2) Bridge at Dartford. One lane remains closed clockwise, resulting in severe delays from junction 31 (A1306) to junction 1A (A206).
Between 4am and 5am, all four lanes on the QE2 Bridge were briefly closed due to a police operation. Authorities responded to concerns for a woman’s welfare on the Dartford Crossing, prompting a search involving HM Coastguard teams.
The woman was recovered from the water nearby but was sadly pronounced dead at the scene despite rescue efforts. Essex Police have confirmed that the death is currently being treated as non-suspicious. A file is being prepared for the coroner.
According to an Essex Police spokesperson: “We were called to concerns for the welfare of a woman on the Dartford Crossing bridge, shortly before 4am this morning (Tuesday 11 July). Following a search by our HM Coastguard colleagues, a woman was recovered from the water nearby. Sadly, despite the best efforts of all involved, she was pronounced deceased. Her death is being treated as non-suspicious and a file is being prepared for the coroner.”
National Highways reports that one lane remains closed with police still on site. Traffic is slow, and motorists are urged to plan alternative routes and allow extra travel time.
Drivers should expect delays clockwise between junction 31 (A1306) and junction 1A (A206) on the M25. It is advised to stay updated with live traffic reports and exercise patience and caution near the QE2 Bridge.
Authorities are working to reopen lanes and restore normal traffic flow as quickly as possible.
Originally published by UKNIP.
