Four seriously injured in A27 collision involving prison van

Four people were seriously injured when a HGV lorry and prison van collided on the A27, shutting the road between Eastbourne and Brighton.
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The collision happened on the Lewes bypass at just before 11am today (Monday, August 10).

The road was shut by police in both directions and is likely to remain closed for several hours.

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Pictures taken earlier showed a number of ambulances and fire engines at the scene and long queues of standstill traffic.

Emergency services at the scene in LewesEmergency services at the scene in Lewes
Emergency services at the scene in Lewes

Police have since confirmed that all three occupants of the security van which overturned following the impact of the crash suffered serious injuries.

A spokesman said: “A 29-year-old man has suffered a serious head injury and has been taken to hospital in a critical condition.

“Two further men – no further details – sustained serious injuries requiring hospital treatment.

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“The lorry driver – a 58-year-old man – also sustained a serious injury and has been taken to hospital.”

Emergency services at the scene in LewesEmergency services at the scene in Lewes
Emergency services at the scene in Lewes

Officers are appealing for anyone who saw what happened or who has dash camera footage of the incident or the events immediately beforehand.

Detective Inspector Sue Neilson from the Serious Collision Investigations Unit said: “This was a serious crash in which several people were injured and we are working to establish the full circumstances.

“If you saw what happened or the vehicles involved immediately prior to this incident then we want to hear from you. We’re also keen to speak to anyone who has dash-cam footage of the collision, or of the broken down security van prior to the collision which occurred between the Southerham roundabout and the Ashcombe roundabout.

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“Road closures are likely to remain in place until the early evening and we’re grateful to members of the public for their patience while we’re dealing with this.

“Please avoid the area if you can and check your route before you travel.”

Anyone who witnessed what happened is urged to report online or call 101, quoting Operation Onyx.