A MOTORIST reportedly crashed into a parked car in Colchester before runnign away, prompting police to launch an investigation.

Essex Police officers are looking into reports of a smash in Avon Way which happened shortly after 7pm on Friday.

According to the force, a black Volvo XC90 was involved in a crash with a parked Ford Focus. 

The driver of the Volvo is then said to have spoken with the owner of the Ford Focus before running away towards Hawthorne Avenue.

Enquiries are ongoing to identify the driver.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We are appealing for witnesses following a fail to stop collision in Colchester on Friday April 12.

"Officers were called to Avon Way shortly after 7pm following reports of a collision involving two vehicles.

“We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision or have any further information to contact us, quoting incident number 1078 of April 12.

“You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday excluding public holidays between 10am-9pm.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111."