THE family of a 19-year-old woman have paid tribute to her after she passed away following a collision in Billericay in April.

Ellie-Mae Hill was one of four people in a car that was involved in a single-vehicle collision at the junction of Pipps Hill Road and Oak Road in Billericay at around 12.40am, Thursday 25 April.

Four people were taken to hospital. Sadly, despite the best efforts of everyone involved, Ellie later died in hospital. Her family continue to be supported by our officers while our investigation continues.

Today, Ellie's family have paid tribute to her as police re-issue an appeal for information, saying: "A granddaughter, a daughter, a sister, an auntie and a niece – our Ellie was well-loved by all who knew her. Taken far too young at just 19 years old.  

"Ellie was always fun and had an infectious laugh. She was a beautiful, kind soul and is deeply missed by all her friends and family. 

"She was hard working and travelled into the city every day for her job and loved meeting her friends at weekends.

"She was a real foodie and loved good food and nice restaurants with friends and family but most of all, always happy and loved life.

"From a young age Ellie showed a passion for fashion and makeup which later meant the family would get their own hair and makeup artist on special occasions.

"She was very talented and lived life but it ended far too soon."

A statement from police said: "Detectives from our Serious Collision Investigation Unit are continuing to investigate the circumstances around the collision and appealing to anyone who may have any CCTV or dashcam to contact us. 

"Please quote incident 34 of 25 April when submitting information.  

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website where you can use our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

"Visit https://www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively, you can call us on 101.

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

A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drink and drugs. He has been released on bail until Sunday 9 June.

A 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of a collision.