Two teenagers die after car collides with tree in Slinfold

Police and emergency services, including West Sussex Fire and Rescue, were called to the A264 Five Oaks Road near Fulfords Hill at around 8.10pm.

A police statement says that the 18-year-old Peugoet driver from Slinfold died at the scene of the collision and an 19-year-old passenger was taken to St Georges Hospital, London for emergency treatment but died this morning (Saturday 6 July).

Two other passengers, an 18-year-old man from Billingshurst and a 17-year-old girl from West Chiltington, have been taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital one with serious but non life threatening injuries and the other (the girl) with minor injuries.

Three teenagers, two aged 18 and one aged 19, arrested on suspicion of death by dangerous driving following the incident have been released with no further action.

The driver of the Opel Astra, an 18-year-old man from Billingshurst, also arrested on suspicion of death by dangerous driving, has been released on unconditional bail until 28 August pending further enquiries.

Sergeant Alan Spicer from the Roads Policing Unit said: “All fatal road traffic collisions are tragic but even more so, when it involves young people just starting out in life.

“I would appeal to anyone who witnessed the collision and has not yet spoken to officers to please do so as a matter of urgency. We would also like to hear from any other drivers who saw the silver Peugoet or the silver Opel Astra prior to the collision. Please call 101 quoting Op Marline or email [email protected]

The road was closed for around nine hours while rescue, recovery and collision investigation work took place and police would like to thank drivers for their patience.