TRIBUTES have been pouring in after a ‘beautiful’ mother-of-eight died in a horrific crash on her way to her 40th birthday holiday.
Gran Zoe Hawes was killed in a collision on the M25 between a van and three cars moments after a police chase at 4am on Sunday.
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Mother of eight Zoe Hawes has diedCredit: Facebook
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The accident happened on the M25 in Hertfordshire
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Zoe is remembered as a ‘beautiful, kind-hearted young lady’ Credit: Facebook
Zoe, from Canvey Island, was traveling on holiday to celebrate her birthday when the fatal crash took place, killing another man.
Officers chased a stolen Citroen van which then crashed into three cars – including Zoe’s.
A 20-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
In a tribute, Zoe’s grieving family said: “Zoe was the heart of our blended family. She was a role model for everyone and the center of our family.
“She was a much-loved mother, stepmother, sister, aunt and lovely young nana.
“She was a friend to many. She really wanted to go on vacation to celebrate her 40th year with her husband.
“Unfortunately, a holiday and birthday that she did not get to celebrate. We are all trying to come together as a family and are devastated to lose Zoe in this tragic way.
“We wouldn’t trade her for anything in the world, and she leaves a huge hole in our family that will never be filled.
“We love you and will miss you forever.”
Friends have now set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds for her funeral.
It reads: “The very sad news came on Sunday that Zoe Hawes, loved by her husband, children, family and friends, has tragically passed away soon after.
“She was a beautiful, kind-hearted, young lady. She left behind eight beautiful children and two grandchildren and a husband who is in a critical condition in the hospital.”
Hertfordshire Police were in hot pursuit of the van before it collided with three other vehicles.
‘BEAUTIFUL AND GOOD HEARTS’
However, they say that no police vehicles were involved in the accident and that the chase was called off before the crash.
A spokesman explained: “The woman has sadly passed away and her family are being assisted by specially trained officers.
“Of course the incident has been referred to the Independent Policing Office.”
The IOPC watchdog is now probing the events leading up to the horrific motorway crash.
The statement said: “We have dispatched our investigators to the scene and to the post-incident process to begin the information gathering process.
“Our investigation is at a very early stage.”
A forensic investigation has reportedly been launched to piece together the events that led to the crash.
Detective Inspector Mark Fraser, from Essex Police, said: “Our thoughts are with the loved ones of those who lost their lives in this collision.
“I am asking all witnesses and anyone with information to come forward.
Did you see what happened or the events leading up to the crash? Please do not hesitate to contact us if you can help.
“I’d also like to ask any CCTV owners who have been driving in the area to check and get in touch if they see anything that could help us.”
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to come forward by contacting police on 999 or emailing Essex Police at [email protected].
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Zoe left behind eight children and two grandchildren Credits: Facebook
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Zoe’s family paid an emotional tributeCredit: Facebook
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