Crane crashes into Billericay home

The bizarre incident took place today in Horace Road, Billericay, and left the detached home with a significant hole in the roof, dislodging several roof tiles in the process.

Picture c/o of Essex County Fire and Rescue Service

Scene - the street cordoned off by police

Drama - the incident happened shortly after midday today

The crane was being used to lower materials over the property, but tipped over and fell onto the roof of the house.

When firefighters arrived shortly after 12.07pm today, they reported the driver of the crane was trapped inside the cab, which was off the ground.

Firefighters worked with the Ambulance Service and to rescue the driver of the crane by 2pm.

The driver was left in the care of the Ambulance Service.

Crews from Billericay, Basildon and Chelmsford were sent to the scene.

A spokesman for Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said: “Firefighters were called to assist at the scene of a crane which had fallen onto the roof of a house in Billericay.

“The crane was being used to lower materials over the property, but tipped over and fell onto the roof of the house.

“When firefighters arrived they reported that the driver of the crane was trapped inside the cab of the crane.”

A spokesman for the East of England Ambulance Service said: “We were called at 12.14pm with reports of an industrial accident in Horace Road, Billericay.

“We sent the hazardous area response team, one ambulance, a rapid response vehicle and two ambulance officers.”

One ambulance remained at the scene by 3pm.

An Essex Police spokesman added: “We are assisting with the road closure.”

Horace Road remained closed into yesterday evening, leaving residents stranded as they attempted to return home after the school run and work.

Roads nearby became increasingly busy as frustrated residents were denied access.

The crane is owned by Snooks Lifting.

When contacted by the Echo, firm bosses said they were on the way to the scene.