Overview
- A van went over the cliff at Peacehaven and landed on the beach, and the driver was found dead after officers responded to reports at about 4.30pm on Wednesday.
- Sussex Police are leading an active investigation into the full circumstances and have informed the coroner’s office while the scene remains sealed off.
- A stretch of fencing along the cliff top was destroyed during the incident, creating an immediate safety risk and complicating scene preservation.
- Lewes District Council officers are on site supporting police and have urged people to avoid the cliff-top area and the beach beneath Friars Bay.
- The driver has not yet been formally identified and formal confirmation of cause of death will follow the coroner’s enquiries, a process that can take time.