TRAGIC LOSS M25 crash: Mum-of-eight dies in smash as tributes pour in for ‘beautiful nana’ killed on way to 40th birthday holiday
TRIBUTES have poured in after a 'beautiful' mum-of-eight was killed in a horror crash on her way to a holiday for her 40th birthday.
Gran Zoe Hawes died in a smash on the M25 between a van and three cars moments after a police chase at 4am on Sunday.
Zoe, from Canvey Island, had been travelling to go on holiday to celebrate her birthday when the fatal crash, that also left another man dead, occured.
Cops had been chasing a stolen Citroen van which then crashed into three cars - including Zoe’s.
A man in his twenties has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
In a tribute, Zoe's grieving family said: “Zoe was the heart of our blended family. She was a role model to everyone and the centre of our family.
“She was a very much loved mum, step-mum, sister, aunt and lovely young nanna.
“She was a friend to many. She was very much looking to go on holiday to celebrate her 40th with her husband.
“Sadly a holiday and birthday she didn't get to celebrate. We are all trying to pull together as a family and are devastated to lose Zoe in this tragic way.
“We wouldn't have changed her for the world and she leaves an enormous hole in our family that will never be filled.
“We love you and will miss you forever.”
A GoFundMe page has now been set up by friends to raise funds for her funeral.
It reads: “The very sad news came on Sunday that Zoe Hawes, who is loved by her husband, children, family and friends was tragically taken to soon.
“She was a beautiful, kind-hearted, young lady. She has left behind eight beautiful children and two grandchildren and her husband who is in a critical condition in hospital.”
Hertfordshire Police had been in pursuit of the van before it collided with three other vehicles.
'BEAUTIFUL AND KIND-HEARTED'
However, they say no police vehicles were involved in the crash and the chase had been stood down prior to the collision.
A spokesperson explained: "A woman has sadly passed away and her family are being supported by specially trained officers.
"As a matter of course, the incident has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct."
The IOPC watchdog is now probing the run-up to the horrific motorway crash.
A statement reads: "We sent our investigators to the scene and to the post incident procedure to begin the process of gathering information.
"Our investigation is in the very early stages.”
A forensic investigation has reportedly been launched to piece together the events that led to the crash.
Detective Inspector Mark Fraser, from Essex Police, said: “Our thoughts are with the loved ones of those who lost their lives in this collision.
“I am appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to get in touch.
“Did you see what happened or the events leading up to the collision? Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you can help.
“I also want to ask any dashcam owners who were driving in the area to check it and get in touch if you spot something that might help us.”
Anyone with information regarding the incident is being encouraged to come forward by contacting the police on 999 or by emailing Essex Police at CollisionAppeal@essex.police.uk.
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