Disqualified driver was high on drugs when he crashed and killed mum-of-two in Southend

A disqualified driver who had taken a "cocktail of drugs" before causing a crash that killed a mother-of-two has been convicted.

Essex Police said that Lee Rance, 43, of Shoeburyness, knew he was high on drugs and serving a driving ban when he got behind the wheel of his Mini Cooper on 20 May last year.

At around 11.30pm a British Transport Police officer became concerned about the Mini’s speed along the A1159 in Southend. But when he activated his blue lights to pull the car over, Rance accelerated away.

A short time later, the officer came across the wreckage of the Mini, which had hit a tree.

Rance’s front‑seat passenger Carly Hicks was taken to hospital in a critical condition, where she later died.

Police recovered drugs including cocaine and heroin, while a firearm bearing Rance’s fingerprint was found stashed in a carrier bag behind the driver’s seat.

Rance denied causing death by dangerous driving, possession of a firearm when prohibited, and possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, but was convicted on all counts after a trial at Basildon Crown Court.

Ms Hicks' family said: “The loss of our beautiful Carly will leave a hole in our hearts that cannot be healed, and life will never be the same.

“Some of Carly’s best qualities were her ability to see the good in others and her kindness, even if others did not deserve it.

“She had an infectious smile and a distinctive laugh you could recognise anywhere.

"Carly was taken from us prematurely as she sadly gave her trust and kindness to the wrong person, and that ultimately led to the end of her life.

"She had suffered a great amount of bereavement in her life. Despite this, Carly was an incredible mother to her two beautiful daughters, who now have to navigate life without her.

“Carly was a beautiful soul who left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of meeting her.

"She was a strong, irreplaceable member of our family, and we will miss her contagious smile and zest for life.”

Det Sgt Sam Nason said: “Rance inexplicably tried to deny his horrific offending in this case, prolonging the agony of all those who loved Carly and want to see justice done in her name.

"Rance made a series of despicable decisions that night, which not only cost Carly her life but also risked the lives of other road users.

"These guilty verdicts fairly reflect the catastrophic harm caused by his actions."

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