AN INVESTIGATION into a crash near a school in Chalkwell has been launched after a driver "fled the scene".

Essex Police were called to reports of a crash on the A13 at the junction of Nelson Road, at around 4:35am yesterday morning. 

One car was involved in a crash with "street furniture" before coming to a stop on the pavement. 

Officers arrived quickly on the scene but found the driver had left the vehicle. 

An investigation has now been launched and enquiries are continuing. 

As a result of the crash, First Essex buses were diverted for several hours, whilst officers dealt with the incident. 

A spokesman for Essex Police added: "We were called with reports of a collision at the junction of Nelson Road and the A13 at about 4.35am on Wednesday, April 24.

"One car was involved in a collision with street furniture and came to a stop on the pavement.

"Officers quickly arrived on the scene and found the driver had left the vehicle.

"An investigation has been opened and our enquiries are continuing."