A MAN is being held by police after a driver was killed in a tragic crash.

The 50-year-old man was arrested by police after a collision in Burnt Mills Road, Basildon, at about 7.10pm last night.

Police reports suggested a Vauxhall Zafira had collided with a VW van.

Despite medics' best efforts, the Vauxhall driver was pronounced dead at the scene.

The male driver of the VW van, from Basildon, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and being unfit to drive through drink or drugs.

The collision happened at the junction with Cockerell Close.

Police are urging residents who live nearby, to get in touch with information or CCTV which could help their investigations.

The road was closed for several hours following the collision, for forensic recovery to take place.

Officers are also keen to hear from anyone who drove past the location and may have dash cam footage which could have captured the VW or Vauxhall prior to the collision.

Anyone with information should contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit as soon as possible on 01245 240590 or email collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk.

Alternatively, information can be reported anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Information can also be submitted online at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information-online/.