The junction where a woman and her unborn baby were killed in a crash involving an unmarked police car in Eltham has been described as “one of the most dangerous in south-east London”.

The incident happened on the A20, near the junction with Kidbrooke Park Road, Eltham, at around 6.15pm on Thursday, according to the Metropolitan Police.

A heavily pregnant 38-year-old woman and her unborn baby died as a result of their injuries.

The next of kin have been informed, the Met said.

A witness, Abu Bakar, claimed the woman was turning into the Sutcliffe Park Sports Centre when an unmarked police car “driving on the wrong side of the road” crashed with her.

He told the PA news agency: “Four police cars had their lights on racing down the road.

“The speed they were doing – I’ve never seen anything like it.

“One of the cars hit her and she flipped three times. Her car was very badly smashed up.”

One neighbour told the PA news agency that the junction where the crash happened “is one of the most dangerous in south-east London”.

Another resident living near the scene of the crash in Eltham suggested the incident was “unsurprising” given the speed of drivers.

They told the PA news agency: “They drive really recklessly and it’s a very busy road, so I see how it could happen.

“It’s very sad.”

Another neighbour said they had been brought to tears by news of the incident and recalled seeing “loads of emergency vehicles” throughout the night.

Another said: “This is a very dangerous road. I didn’t hear anything but when I looked out of the window I saw loads of police cars and emergency service vehicles.

“I saw what looked like a beige car with a dent in the side.

“The police were here for ages and the road didn’t start to open properly until Friday morning.” Flowers have been laid at the scene of the incident.

One of the tributes laid on the road said: “My deepest thoughts are with you, your baby and your family and friends.

“The most awful tragedy that should never have happened and hope your family get some justice. RIP beautiful lady and your baby.”

An IOPC spokesperson said: “We can confirm that we have started an independent investigation into the circumstances of a fatal collision involving Met Police in South East London last night (17 October).

“We were notified that an unmarked police vehicle was in collision with a member of public’s vehicle at around 6.15pm on the A20, near the junction with Kidbrooke Park Road, Eltham, SE9.

“We understand that the driver, and sole occupant, of the vehicle was a heavily pregnant woman. Ambulance and fire services attended, and she was given treatment.

 “The woman and her baby sadly both died. 

 “We sent investigators to the scene and post-incident process to begin gathering evidence. Our investigation is in the very early stages.  

 “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the woman who has died and all of those affected by this tragic incident.”    

Witnesses are asked to contact IOPC investigators by calling 03003035610 or emailing ElthamRoad@policeconduct.gov.uk