A woman who died following a crash in Buckhurst Hill has been described as a “passionate, strong, kind caring young lady with her whole life ahead of her”.

Chalize Vitalis-Lovell, 19, of Buckhurst Hill, was a pedestrian near a two-vehicle crash with a car and a van in Buckhurst Way on Tuesday, 12 October.

Sadly, she died at the scene.

Her mum said in a statement: “Chalize was a much loved passionate, strong, kind caring young lady with her whole life ahead of her. 

“She was very much a family person and would stand up for what she believes in.

“She was fantastic at her job in child care and was looking forward to becoming a mum herself one day.

“Her family and friends are extremely heartbroken at this time and trying to come to terms with the fact that we will never see her again. 

“She was the best daughter a mum could ever wish for".   

The driver of the van, 28 year-old man from Harlow, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, and suspicion of driving while unfit through drink or drugs.

He has since been released under investigation while the police continue enquiries.

Chalize Vitalis-Lovell's death has sparked a campaign calling on Essex Highways and Essex County Council to make roads safer by introducing traffic calming measures across Buckhurst Hill.

Ms Vitalis-Lovell is the third person in eight years to have been killed on either Buckhurst Way or Loughton Way in the town in an accident involving a motorist.  

An online petition has been started by concerned residents calling for traffic calming measures to be introduced along Buckhurst Way, Loughton Way and Roding Lane.

The petition has already gained over 1,900 signatures.

Essex County Council have been contacted for a comment.