A motorist has died after a collision involving five cars and two lorries on the M25 earlier this afternoon.
The carriageway is currently closed between junction 29 and 30 after the incident, which took place at around 12.30pm.
Two people have been airlifted to The Royal London Hospital in east London. An Essex Police spokesman said they were currently in a serious condition.
Paramedics are on the scene treating others for less serious injuries.
The incident was also the first to be dealt with by Brentwood's retained fire crew.
East of England Ambulance Service spokesman Gary Sanderson said: "Sadly a patient has died at the scene of the collision. Our thoughts are with their family at this tragic time."
"A further two adults and a child have been taken by land ambulances to Basildon Hospital for further treatment, their injuries are non life threatening."
Traffic is currently being diverted off via the hollow triangle, the A127, A128 and the A13 before drivers rejoin at junction 30. Congestion is currently stretching back to junction 28 at the Brook Street Roundabout.
The section of carriageway is expected to remain closed for several hours, including the evening rush hour.
Were you caught up in the delays as a result? Let us know by emailing the newsdesk on piers.meyler@gazettenews.co.uk
Two people have been arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and are currently on their way to a police station in south Essex to be processed.
