THE driver arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, following a fatal crash on the M42, has been released under investigation.

Four cars and a lorry were involved in the collision just before 9pm on Sunday night (July 9), which resulted in three of the cars setting fire, which spread to the lorry's fuel tank, causing it to explode.

The driver of one of the Volkswage Golfds suffered devastating injuries and was found dead inside the fire-ravaged car.

Police are yet to identify the person.

A 52-year-old man from Exmouth in Devon was arrested the next day on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, but has since been released while police continue with their investigations.

Investigating officer, Police Sergeant Rob Gilligan of Central Motorway Police Group (CMPG), said: "We would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the circumstances leading up to the incident.

"Anyone with information is asked to call West Midlands Police on the non-emergency telephone number 101 quoting 2832 of July 9."

The crash involved a HGV, Renault Kadjar and two Volkswagen Golfs on the southbound carriageway between J1 and J2.