Arrest after Thorpe Park 'hit and run'

Jul 30 2010 By Russell Butt

A MOTORIST has been arrested following a 'unusual' hit and run incident that left two teenagers seriously injured.

An 18-year-old man was arrested in connection with the crash that took place shortly before midnight on Tuesday, July 27 on the A320 Staines Road, adjacent to the entrance to Thorpe Park.

The driver of a black Vauxhall Corsa was travelling north towards Staines when the vehicle hit two pedestrians after leaving the road and mounting the pavement.

A 16-year-old male suffered a fractured skull, broken leg, internal bleeding and a swollen brain from the collision and remains in St Peter's Hospital, Chertsey in a serious but stable condition.

The 18-year-old pedestrian, also male, suffrered injuries to his arm and chest and is also in a serious but stable condition.

A Surrey Police spokesperson said: "Road traffic collisions such as this are unusual and this was clearly a serious incdent where two young pedestrians were injured.

"Officers from Surrey Police's Collision Investigation Unit carried out a thorough and extensive investigation into the collision which fortunately resulted in an arrest being made a short time after the offence. The matter is continuing to be investigated by Surrey Police so we will not be able to comment further on the specific circumstances of the case at this stage."

Immediately following the crash, the driver and another occupant of the car were spotted by witnesses fleeing the scene, but a comprehensive search by dog teams and the police helicopter could not locate them.

Following thorough and extensive enquiries by Surrey Police’s Collision Investigation Unit the 18-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday 28 July and has since been released on police bail until September 29 while the investigation continues.

A resident from nearby Chertsey Lane, who did not wish to be named, said: "I was just going to bed and I heard the police helicopter, but did not know what was going on. I didn't see any police cars when I looked out the window. My friend had to go to work through Thorpe because Staines Road was closed off."

Staines Road was closed while collision investigation officers examined the scene, causing minor disruptions to traffic and was reopened at 5am.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or who was in the area during the evening and believes they have seen the vehicle involved or a similar car prior to the collision is asked to contact Surrey Police on 0845 125 2222