A serious crash on the A21 near Johns Cross has led to the road being shut in both directions after a collision involving two vehicles. Three people travelling in one of the cars sustained serious injuries and have been taken to hospital for treatment.
The other driver involved, a 16-year-old boy, was arrested on multiple charges including dangerous driving, failing to stop, and aggravated vehicle taking. Reports indicate that he was attempting to evade police before the crash occurred.
The incident took place at approximately 2.25 pm on Thursday 16 March. The Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an independent investigation into the events surrounding the collision.
Both carriageways of the A21 remain closed, causing significant disruption for commuters in the area. Authorities are advising drivers to avoid the location and seek alternative routes. Local councils have requested public patience as they work to clear the wreckage and complete their investigations.
In a statement, the IOPC said: “We can confirm we have begun an independent investigation into a serious road traffic collision in Sussex yesterday (Thursday 16 March). The collision occurred at around 2.25 pm on the A21 near Johns Cross and involved two vehicles being driven by members of the public. One of the vehicles had been pursued by police prior to the incident. The driver and sole occupant of this vehicle, a 16-year-old male, was taken to hospital following the collision and then discharged into police custody later that day after it was confirmed he had sustained minor injuries. The three occupants of the second vehicle were taken to the hospital with serious injuries. After being notified by the force, we sent investigators to the scene and post-incident procedures. We will be in touch with the families of the injured parties in due course to express our sympathies and explain our role. Our investigation is at a very early stage.”
Originally published by UKNIP.