Police are searching for a driver of a BMW, as well as a large knife, following an incident which closed Aveley bypass.

The drama began at 4.30pm yesterday following reports of an argument and a crash on the bypass, during which the weapon was seen.

The row is believed to have taken place between the occupants of a silver Mercedes and blue BMW, which were also involved in a crash.

It sparked rumours on social media that the incident was a terror attack, but police responded by saying "it was not Terrorism related".

Prior to the collision and altercation on the Aveley bypass, both vehicles had been seen by witnesses in nearby Tamar Drive at about 4.20pm.

Following their arrival at the Aveley Bypass, officers arrested two men – believed to be the driver and passenger of the Mercedes – on suspicion of affray. They remain in custody.

However, the driver of the BMW ran off from the scene. At least one of the occupants of the car was reported by witnesses to have been carrying a large knife. No weapon has so far been recovered.

The Aveley bypass between Romford Road and Park Lane was closed for a number of hours while forensic examination and recovery of the BMW and Mercedes took place. It was opened again by 10pm.

Searches of the area were conducted and enquiries continue.

Essex Police haven't realised any specifics about the incident being treated they say as a "public order incident".

A police spokesman did say it was an isolated incident - and there was no immediate danger to the public.

When asked by the Echo, the spokesman could not confirm at this stage if anybody has suffered any injuries - despite reports on social media that there was a lot of blood on the street.

The police helicopter was circling the area last night and there was an increased police presence while searches were conducted.

Anyone with information or who saw the incident is asked to contact Grays CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.