Two fatal crashes near Sudbury prompt reduction calls

Emergency services were first called to a serious crash involving a box van and a motorcycle on the A131 between Sudbury and Little Maplestead at about 10.40am on Saturday. 

The rider of the motorcycle, a man in his 40s, died at the scene, and the driver of the lorry, a 29-year-old man from Enfield, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and later released under investigation.

A man died after a crash on the A131 near Sudbury (Image: Google maps)

Later the same day, at about 11.15pm, emergency services were called to Sudbury Road, between Sudbury and Bulmer, after a silver Ford Fiesta had crashed into a tree. 

A police spokesman confirmed that the driver, a 17-year-old boy, died at the scene.

A 17-year-old boy died after a crash on Sudbury Road (Image: Google Maps)

David Holland, who represents Stour Valley South on Braintree District Council, said: "This weekend has been a terribly sad one for the communities in this area as there have been two fatal accidents on our roads.

"I’m sure I speak for everyone I represent in saying that my and our thoughts are with all those affected by these tragedies. Our hearts go out to them.

"The loss of anyone who should have many years of vibrant life and potential in front of them is always the cause of great sadness."

Cllr David Holland (Image: Braintree District Council)

While he said he could not comment on the safety of the roads involved as the details behind the crashes remain unclear, he urged motorists to "drive with care according to the constraints of the road and local conditions".

"I personally actively work with our communities, councils and authorities to deliver improvements in road safety," he said.

"We currently have initiatives going forward with this objective in Stour Valley South, north Essex.

"Accordingly, I like others am keen to understand why these tragedies have happened.

"We look to both the authorities and the media to help inform this essential process.

"Together we must do what we can to reduce the likelihood of any repetition of such sad events on our roads."

Cllr Laura Smith (Image: Babergh District Council)

Laura Smith, who represents Sudbury South West on Babergh District Council, said of the two crashes: "It's hard to comment without knowing the individual circumstances, but I'm always terribly saddened to hear of young lives cut short and my thoughts are with the bereaved families."