A FUNDRAISER set up to support the family of a "role model" mother who was killed in a tragic M25 crash has been closed after hitting its £10,000 target.

Zoe Hawes, from Canvey, was travelling to go on holiday to celebrate her 40th birthday when the fatal crash occurred.

The crash took place at around 4am between junctions 22 and 21A. Hertfordshire Police officers had been in pursuit of a van which was later involved in a crash with three other vehicles, including the car which Zoe was in.

A second man, travelling in a different vehicle, also died following the crash on Sunday, February 4.

Zoe’s husband, Wayne, was left in a critical but stable condition, Hertfordshire Police confirmed this week.

A GoFundMe set up to support the family of the mum-of-eight - helping with funeral costs and hospital visits - has now reached its £10,000 target with £10,034 raised. 

Thanking those who donated, a message on the GoFundMe page says: "Words will never be enough but thank you. Zoe has left a massive hole in a lot of peoples lives, she was truly loved by so many people."

In a tribute following the crash, Zoe’s family described her as a much-loved mother, stepmother, sister, aunt and young grandmother, who was the "heart" of the family and a "role model to everyone". 

Hertfordshire Police continues to appeal for any witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

 

Officers in a marked vehicle had been in pursuit of the van shortly before the crash. The pursuit was quickly abandoned as the officers assessed that the risk of continuing was too high.

The incident was referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct who are now investigating and Essex Police is conducting a criminal investigation into the crash.

Detective Inspector Mark Fraser, from Essex Police, said this week: “Our thoughts are with the loved ones of those who lost their lives in this crash.

“I am appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to get in touch.

“Did you see what happened or the events leading up to the crash? Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you can help.

“I also want to ask any dashcam owners who were driving in the area to check it and get in touch if you spot something that might help us.

“You can email me at CollisionAppeal@essex.police.uk.”