EXCLUSIVE PICTURES & VIDEO: Car destroys shops after crashing into van during police chase

A DRIVER is sought by police after the car they were in destroyed three shop fronts after hitting a van during a police chase.

The drama unfolded after 9:30pm on Wednesday in Woodford Green, east London, near the Essex border.

The car had got away from chasing police before officers later saw it crashed.

People who saw the aftermath said they heard the black Kia electric 23-registration car had been fleeing police before the accident and the driver made off.

Our images show the damage caused to a lettings business, beauty salon and bathroom store next to each other in the high road.

A police helicopter was used to look for the driver but they were not found.

A Met Police spokesman said: "Police were in pursuit of a suspect vehicle at around 9:30pm on Wednesday, 27 September in the Woodford area.

"The car was lost to police but was then a short time later was found to have collided with other vehicles and "buildings in Woodford High Road.

"The occupant decamped and fled.

"The National Police Air Service assisted with a search.

"Despite extensive searches the person could not be found. Enquiries are ongoing."

The force has not said why the vehicle was being pursued.