A woman has died following a "horrific" crash on the M11 near Harlow.

Police were first called to reports of a crash on the southbound carriageway between junction eight for Stansted and junction seven for Harlow shortly after 10.10pm on Saturday.

It was reported an Audi had hit the central reservation before colliding with a BMW and a VW Passat.

The passenger in the Audi, a woman in her 30s, sustained multiple serious injuries and was taken to hospital but, sadly, later died.

Police believe there could have been another vehicle in the vicinity of the Audi at the time of the smash.

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A spokesman for Essex Police said: "At this stage we don’t have a description of that vehicle and we need anyone who saw what happened or has dash cam footage to come forward.

"In particular, we need to speak to anyone who saw any interaction between the Audi and any other vehicles."

The road was closed between junctions eight and seven and officers have worked through the night to release the traffic which had built up.

The road is likely to remain closed until at least mid-morning.

Sergeant Alex Black from the Serious Collison Investigation Unit has said: “This was a horrific collision which has had a tragic outcome and it’s really important we’re able to establish exactly what’s happened.

“I need anyone who has any information about what happened, or any footage of the collision or the lead up to it, to come forward.

“Officers have been working through the night in really challenging circumstances.

“We only get one chance to collect all possible evidence following collisions. When the road re-opens, any remaining evidence is lost.

“When someone has sadly lost their life it’s really important we’re able to give their family answers about what happened.

“I want to thank drivers who have been stuck in the traffic for their patience and understanding.”

Anyone with information can call 101 quoting incident 1337 of September 26 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.