A police van has crashed into a private vehicle at a crossroads junction in Sandown this evening (Thursday).
The incident has occurred at the junction of Leed Street and Fitzroy Street near the middle of the town.
It appears the Hampshire Constabulary vehicle – a Ford Transit cell van – was travelling along Fitzroy Street with right of way when it collided into the side of a Mini One, thought to have been emerging from the lower section of Leed Street.
The Isle of Wight Ambulance Service and Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service are in attendance, alongside numerous Police units who are both supporting their colleagues and managing the scene.
A large cordon has been erected and there is a significant Police presence in the area. Door to door enquiries are also taking place.
It’s unknown at this time how many Police officers were in the vehicle, whether they were responding to an emergency call and whether any prisoners were in the rear of the vehicle.
Both roads have been closed and Southern Vectis buses are having to divert locally.
The bus operator says Routes 3 and 8 towards Ryde are unable to serve the stops on Melville Street. Buses will instead divert via The Broadway to reach Station Avenue and a normal line of route.
UPDATE @ 21:20 – At least 1 person has been conveyed to hospital, although their injuries are not thought to be serious.
Despite the level of injuries and the simplicity of the crash in terms of recovery, the area remains cordoned off.
Both the ambulance service and fire service have now stood down from the incident.
Hampshire Constabulary has been contacted for a statement.
