THE death of a woman in a crash on the A13 near Dagenham in the early hours of the morning has been confirmed by police.

The road remained closed through this morning's rush hour while investigations into the incident, which involved police pursuit of a vehicle.

Chief Superintendent Stuart Hooper, Essex Police gold commander, said: "Shortly after 2.30am this morning, (Friday 25 November), a vehicle failed to stop when requested by officers on the A13 in Essex.

"Officers then remained in the proximity of that vehicle as it travelled on the A13 near Rainham.

"The vehicle was then involved in a serious collision with another vehicle.

"Despite the best efforts of officers and medics at the scene, a female passenger in the second vehicle has now died.

"We are currently working with our colleagues in the Metropolitan Police Service who, at this stage, are leading the response to the incident. 

"As is appropriate, we have made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office of Police Conduct which has declared an independent investigation."

Long delays have subsequently built up.

Updates to follow.