Man arrested on suspicion of murder after fatal van crash in Essex

Suspected hit-and-run occurred following nearby fight

The Street, B1441, Little Clacton (Google)

A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a 41-year-old was struck by a van in an apparent hit-and-run shortly after a fight in the same area.

The victim died at the scene of the incident near the Blacksmiths pub in the village of Little Clacton, Essex, at around 11pm Friday night.

He has been named as Dean Clark from the village.

A man from Clacton, also 41 years old, was detained by Essex Police a short time after the smash. The force confirmed he and Mr Clark were known to each other.

Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Truss said: “Our investigation into Dean’s death is in its early stages but we are making good progress and are building up a picture of what led up to it.”

He added: “No-one else was injured during the incident. We have also located a vehicle which matches the description of the one involved.”

He added: “If you were in the area last night and saw something or have dash cam or CCTV footage, I need you to contact my team.”

Part of the B1441, also known as The Street, where the incident occurred, is expected to remain closed for much of the day.