Mother-of-eight dies in horror M25 crash as tributes pour in for 'beautiful grandma' killed on way to her 40th birthday
A mother of eight was killed in a horror accident on the way to her 40th birthday party.
Tributes have poured in for grandma Zoe Hawes afterward the collision on the M25 between a van and three cars moments after A Police car chase at 4am on Sunday.
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Zoe, from Canvey Island, was on holiday celebrating her birthday when the fatal crash occurred, which also killed another man.
The police were chasing a stolen one Lemon van which then crashed into three cars, including Zoe's.
The IOPC watchdog is now investigating the lead-up to the horrific highway crash.
A man in his 20s has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by endangerment the driving.
Paying tribute, Zoe's grieving family said: 'Zoe was the heart of our blended family. She was a role model for everyone and the center of our family.
“She was a much loved mother, stepmother, sister, aunt and sweet young nanna.
“She was a friend to many. She really wanted to go on holiday to celebrate her 40th birthday with her husband.
“Unfortunately, she was unable to celebrate a holiday and birthday. We are all trying to come 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 a huge 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 money for her funeral.
It reads: “The very sad news came on Sunday that Zoe Hawes, who was loved by her husband, children, family and friends, was tragically taken too soon.
“She was a beautiful, kind-hearted young lady. She left behind eight beautiful children and two grandchildren and her husband, who is in a critical condition in hospital.”
Hertfordshire Police said: “The M25 remains closed between junctions 22 (London Colney) and 21A (North Orbital Road/St Albans) following a collision at around 4am this morning.
'Beautiful and friendly'
“Officers pursued a van before the van was involved in a collision with three other vehicles.
No police vehicles were involved in the collision and the pursuit was stopped before the collision.
“A woman has sadly passed away and her family is being supported by specially trained officers.
“The incident has obviously been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.”
The IOPC said: “We are investigating the actions of police ahead of a fatal road traffic collision on the M25 earlier today.
“We have deployed our investigators to the scene of the incident and to the post-incident procedure to begin the information gathering process.
“Our investigation is at a very early stage.”
A forensic investigation has reportedly been launched to piece together the events leading to the crash.
Detective Inspector Mark Fraser, of Essex Police, said: “Our thoughts are with the loved ones of those who lost their lives in this collision.
“I am appealing to witnesses or people with information to get in touch.
“Did you see what happened or what happened that led to the collision? Please don't hesitate to reach out if you can help.
“I would also ask any dashcam owners who were driving in the area to check and get in touch if you see anything that could help us.”
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to come forward by contacting police on 999 or emailing Essex Police at CollisionAppeal@essex.police.uk.
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