An appeal has been launched following after a man died in a crash.

Essex Police have received information that two men were seen running from the vehicle which collided into a ditch on Crooked Mile, Waltham Abbey yesterday (Saturday, October 12).

At around 8am emergency services were contacted to attend to a black Volkswagen Golf R which lost control and collided with a tree. The vehicle came to a stop in a ditch.

A man has been arrested in connection with the collision on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, dwelling burglary and aggravated vehicle taking.

Officers have since received further information that two men who were travelling in the vehicle ran off and remain outstanding.

The first man has been described as being aged in his early to mid-20s, around 5ft 10ins, with blond hair and wore a striped top.

The second man has been described as being aged in his early to mid-20s, around 5ft 10ins, with black hair and wore a light grey top. He was described as speaking with an Irish accent.

Inspector Rob Brettell, of Essex Police’s Serious Collision Investigations Team, said: “We have received a number of reports that two men ran from the vehicle and we would like to talk to them about the collision and their welfare.

“Sadly, a man died at the scene and we continue to make contact with his family during this difficult time.

“A man who suffered serious injuries remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition.

“Our investigation has progressed but we would like to hear from anyone who has information, particularly about the two men who ran from the collision scene.”

Anyone with information or dash cam footage is asked to call our Serious Collisions Investigations Team on 101 quoting incident 296 of 12/10 or you report information by visiting https://mipp.police.uk/operation/4201020119P12-PO1.

Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.