A12 Marks Tey driver's car struck by item shattering glass

The vehicle was being driven on the A12 at Marks Tey when it was struck by an unknown object thrown from near the road, smashing the nearside window.

National Highways has hit out at the reckless individual behind the attack, stating their actions could have had “devastating consequences”.

Police officers are now investigating the circumstances of the frightening close call and have appealed to the public for help.

Incident - the concerning incident took place on the A12 at Marks Tey (Image: Newsquest)

An Essex Police spokeswoman said: “We were notified of criminal damage to a vehicle shortly before 5.50pm on May 8.

“A driver reported that an object was thrown at his car causing a broken window as he drove along the A12 at Marks Tey.

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“No arrests have been made. Anyone with information is asked to call 101.”

It is understood the driver nor any other motorist was injured as a result of the concerning incident on the 70mph road.

Close call - the nearside window of a Mercedes was smashed by an item thrown at it (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

A National Highways spokesman said lives could have been lost and stressed the authority will be supporting the police’s investigation.

He said: "Throwing an object onto a major road can have devastating consequences and puts a number of lives at risk.

"We have extensive CCTV coverage of our roads and we will continue to work closely with our colleagues at Essex Police who are leading the investigation.

"Our priority is the safety of people using our roads and incidents like this can needlessly cost lives."

Aerial view - the A12 at Marks Tey (Image: Newsquest)

In 2019 a van’s windscreen was damaged after being hit by concrete believed to have been thrown from a bridge.

The driver of the blue Ford Transit on the A12 was unharmed but the incident sparked a police investigation and public appeal.

Anyone with any information about the latest incident should call the police on 101 and cite crime reference number 42/86960/23.

Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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