Four people have died after a car hit a building in an early hours collision in city centre.

The crash in Colchester closed Magdalen St for the day on Saturday.

Police said they were called just before 4.40am and emergency services attended but that all four people died at the scene.

Their families have been told and are being supported by specialist officers. The four have not yet been named.

Police said the road had now reopened but some buildings were still being assessed for structural damage.

Police road block
Police had to close Magdalen Street for most of Saturday while they carried out their investigations.
Credit: Essex Police
Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Hooper said: “My thoughts, and those of everyone at Essex Police, is with the friends and families of the four people who died this morning.

“I want to thank the businesses and residents in Magdalen Street area for their support and understanding today in what has been a really difficult and tragic situation.

“I always want to pay tribute to emergency services personnel who have worked diligently, professionally, and compassionately to ensure the dignity of those who have died.

“Our inquiries to establish what led up to the collision are ongoing and I need anyone with information to contact us.”If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.”