Erith driver jailed after A13 crash in Grays

Hakeem Lewis-Harrison careered off the road into a woodland area after missing the exit slip on the A13 onto the A1089 at Grays at 1am on February 19.

His car then caught fire, and the 21-year-old fled the scene, leaving behind two female passengers and a Luis Vuitton bag which contained a bag of cannabis.

One passenger, a 20-year-old woman, sustained a broken shin and ankle, four broken toes and an injury to her wrist.

The other passenger, aged 60, sustained cuts and bruises.

The Nissan following the crash off the A13 in Grays. Essex Police

Essex Police officers were on the scene quickly and Lewis-Harrison was located a short time later.

He was charged with aggravated vehicle taking without consent, failing to stop, driving without insurance, driving otherwise in accordance with a licence, possession of a cannabis and careless driving.

Lewis-Harrison, of Rainbow Road, Erith, London, admitted all charges and was sentenced at Basildon Crown Court on August 27.

He was sentenced to a total of eight months in jail and was disqualified from driving for three years and four months.

PC Asa Smith, who led the investigation, said: “Hakeem Lewis-Harrison had no regard for others on the road or indeed the two women who were passengers in his car on February 19.

“Thankfully both his victims were able to get to safety as the fire took hold but the alternative does not bear thinking about. This incident could quite easily have been much worse for all involved.

“I hope Lewis-Harrison uses his time in prison to reflect on his actions and to plan for a more law-abiding future – in life and on the roads.”