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High Road in Chadwell Heath has been fully closed in both directions following a serious road traffic collision involving two vehicles, one of which overturned near a pub’s beer garden.
The incident, reported shortly after 10:30pm, occurred at the junction with Whalebone Lane North, with witnesses describing the sound “like a bomb going off”. Several people nearby rushed to free those trapped inside the vehicles.
Road Closures and Diversions
Transport for London has issued diversion orders for multiple affected bus routes, including:
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Route 62 towards Barking and Marks Gate
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Routes 86 and N86 towards Romford
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Route 362 towards Goodmayes and Grange Hill
Buses are being diverted via Barley Lane, Chadwell Heath Lane and the A12, with delays expected throughout the night.
At 10:34pm, the road was initially blocked eastbound. By 10:49pm, it had been closed in both directions.
Eyewitness Reports
One customer at a nearby venue, who asked not to be named, said:
“It sounded like a bomb. People screamed, then ran to help. One of the cars looked like it had too many people inside.”
Another reported that one vehicle overturned from the force of the impact, with multiple casualties possibly trapped.
Police Statement Pending
The Metropolitan Police have been contacted for comment. It is not yet confirmed how many people were involved or if any arrests have been made.
Emergency services are currently at the scene, and the extent of injuries remains unclear.
Travel Advice
Drivers are urged to avoid the Chadwell Heath area and seek alternative routes. Delays are expected through the early hours of Friday as accident investigators assess the scene and road surfaces are cleared.
Anyone who witnessed the collision or has dashcam footage is urged to contact Met Police via 101 quoting the incident time and location.
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