A passing family risked their lives to pull occupants from a burning car on the A13 in east London on Thursday night, but two teenagers were already dead. The Volkswagen Golf erupted into flames after a high-speed crash at 8.15pm on the eastbound carriageway near the turn-off onto Noel Road in Newham. Witnesses described hearing a tremendous impact before the vehicle burst into a fireball, sending thick black smoke into the sky.
Two men, aged 18 and 19, were pronounced dead at the scene. Their next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers. A 16-year-old boy suffered life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital by the London Ambulance Service, along with two other victims. The London Ambulance Service dispatched ambulance crews, paramedics in fast response cars, an incident response officer, paramedics from its hazardous area response team, and a trauma team from London’s Air Ambulance.
“Two teenagers killed in A13 fireball crash; family pulled victims from burning car, three arrested.”
Three men, aged 18, 19, and 23, have been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop. They remain in custody as the Met’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit continues its inquiries.
Detective Chief Inspector James Beck said: “Our thoughts remain with the victims’ loved ones following this tragic incident. As we work to build a picture of the circumstances, we are keen to hear from any witnesses to the collision – particularly those with dashcam footage. We are aware of videos circulating on social media which appear to show the aftermath of the collision. We remind people to be respectful of the impact of this footage and encourage people not share and instead contact police directly if they have information.”
The London Fire Brigade said: “A car caught alight following a road traffic collision with street furniture and two vehicles. Sadly, two men were found dead in a vehicle at the scene.” Officers from the Met’s Roads and Transport Policing Command and specialist collision investigators remained at the scene throughout the night, conducting a forensic examination. Roads were closed. Witnesses said the survival of anyone was “nothing short of a miracle”.