Arrest over death of teenage boy in crash

Police were called to reports of a collision in Purfleet on Thursday

An 18-year-old man has been arrested following the death of a 17-year-old boy in a crash involving two cars.

Essex Police said it happened on London Road in Purfleet at about 22:15 BST on Thursday.

The road was closed for several hours close to the Stonehouse Corner roundabout, but it has since reopened.

An 18-year-old man from nearby Rainham, east London, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and remains in custody.

Essex Police said the boy's family had been informed about the death and was being supported by officers.

The force has appealed for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage of the crash to come forward.