Rye pensioner died in coffee shop crash

The scene of the Costa Coffee crash in Kent, which claimed the life of a woman from Rye SUS-151229-122937001

Police were called to The Green in Westerham just after 10.30am following reports a black Audi, being driven by an 88-year-old man, had crashed into Costa Coffee.

The 74-year-old woman died at the scene and five other people were injured.

More than a dozen ambulances raced to the scene, including Critical Care Paramedics and one of the South East Coast Ambulance (SECAmb) Hazardous Area Response Teams (HART).

A spokesperson from SECAmb said: “Two patients, an adult male and female, were taken by ambulance to St Georges Hospital in London, both with serious injuries.

“Two further patients, an adult male and female, were taken by ambulance to the Princess Royal Hospital in Farnborough – again both with serious injuries.

“An adult female with minor injuries was also taken by ambulance to Pembury Hospital.”

He added: “Our thoughts are with all those involved in and affected by this very sad incident.”

The woman’s next of kin have been informed. An inquest is expected to be opened in the New Year.

Kent Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit is investigating the crash.

Officers have asked anyone with information to call 01622 798538 quoting reference 24-378 or email [email protected]