Driver critically injured after thieves ran him over in own van named as David Fletcher, from Upminster
Mr Fletcher remains critically ill in hospital - Credit: Archant
Detectives are appealing for more information following the attempted murder of an Upminster delivery driver, issuing a harrowing photograph of the victim in hospital.
Mr Fletcher was run over by his own van when thieves tried to steal it - Credit: Archant
Self-employed David Fletcher, 58, remains in intensive care and has not regained consciousness since thieves ran him over with his own van, leaving him for dead, in a bungled carjacking in Purfleet, Essex.
The men had tried to make off with Mr Fletcher's van - Credit: Archant
His injuries are extensive and are likely to be life changing, police warned.
The father-of-three was making a delivery to a house in Wood Avenue, just before 12.30pm on Tuesday, July 9, when two men jumped into his Mercedes lorry and tried to drive off.
He chased them, attempting to grab the keys through the driver’s window, but was dragged along the road for around 10 metres before being thrown from the moving vehicle, which then drove over him.
Officers have so far arrested five men. They have been released on police bail until September 20.
Det Ch Insp Lucy Robinson, from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate is leading the investigation, codenamed Operation String.
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She said: “Despite having made progress in our enquiry, this is still very much a live investigation and we remain open-minded as to who may be responsible for this horrendous crime. I am convinced the answer lies locally. Someone out there will know who tried to steal that lorry and so cruelly left the victim for dead.”
Police have issued a photograph of the Mercedes box lorry in the hope it may jog memories.
Det Ch Insp Robinson added: “I would be interested to hear from anyone who was in the area of Wood Avenue, the social club known locally as the Fondue Club or the Bowls Club and the recreational area in front of those buildings at the end of the cul-de-sac of Wood Avenue. They may have seen something of assistance to us, a car or other small clue to help us identify these two men.”
Witnesses and those with info should call 01279 621802, email scdappeals@essex.police.pnn.police.ukor or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.
