Police are investigating whether a Hove pensioner died as the result of a “road rage” row after a minor crash in Shoreham.
The 75-year-old man may have suffered a “medical episode” – possibly a heart attack – while he was being confronted by the 28-year-old driver of another car.
The 28-year-old man, from Worthing, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of common assault and remained in police custody this morning (Thursday 5 December).
The A259 was closed for almost six hours as a result of the incident which happened at about 4pm yesterday and led to long delays for drivers during the evening rush hour.
Sussex Police said: “A driver sadly died in Shoreham after his car was in a minor collision with another vehicle on Wednesday afternoon (4 December).
“Emergency services were called to the scene on the A259 Brighton Road, just west of the Saltings roundabout, shortly before 4pm.
“Prior to this incident both vehicles were involved in a minor collision in the area of Brooklands Park on the A259.
“A silver Honda CR-V, driven by the man from Hove, had apparently clipped wing mirrors with a white Toyota Aygo driven by a 28-year-old man from Worthing.
“The driver of the Aygo followed the Honda towards Shoreham until both vehicles stopped and an altercation is reported to have taken place.
“Police are investigating the circumstances of the incident to find out if the death of the 75-year-old driver was as a result of a medical episode or the actions of the other driver.
“Detectives are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or its aftermath to report online or call 101 quoting Operation Appleton.
“They are particularly interested to hear from any other drivers who may have dash-cam footage of the vehicles at any point between Worthing and Shoreham.
“The road reopened shortly before 10pm.
“A 28-year-old man from Worthing was arrested at the scene on suspicion of common assault and remained in custody on Thursday morning.”
