Seven confirmed dead in M5 accident in Somerset


Seven people have been killed and 51 injured in a 34-vehicle pile-up on the M5 in Somerset, police have confirmed.

Officers said Friday night's crash, which happened close to junction 25 northbound at about 20:30 GMT, led to a "massive fireball" at the scene.

The cause of the crash is not clear but the road was wet and foggy in patches.

People concerned about relatives who may have been involved in the crash should call 0800 092 0410. Police have said the death toll may rise.

Earlier reports said more than 10 were feared dead and officers said some bodies may not yet have been recovered from the charred vehicles.
'Horrific scene'

Of the injured, 25 were taken to Yeovil District Hospital; 17 of the more seriously injured are being treated at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton; and nine were treated at the scene.

Transport Secretary Justine Greening said: "My deepest sympathies are with the families affected by this tragic incident.

"I would like to thank the rescue workers and emergency staff who worked throughout the night to help the injured."

The motorway is closed between junction 24 for Bridgwater and junction 25 for Taunton and will remain shut until at least Sunday morning.

Assistant Chief Constable Anthony Bangham, of Avon and Somerset Police, appealed for witnesses to contact the police to aid what he said would be a "very thorough investigation" into the crash.

He said the crash scene was "horrific" and there would now be a multi-agency "forensic examination" of the area, where many vehicles were burned to the ground.

"The incident was very, very challenging and on arrival crews were faced with literally one massive fireball," he added.

"Most vehicles were well alight and most continued to burn for a considerable time.

Heavy queues

Police could not confirm the age or sex of the dead, but Mr Bangham told reporters four of the casualties were in one vehicle.


Motorists who used the road before the crash said there was standing water on parts of the carriageway, following a day of heavy rain in the county.

Police said they would be investigating whether appropriate safety measures were in place regarding a fireworks display which was taking place at Taunton Rugby Club near the motorway.

Traffic is being diverted via the A38 but heavy queues are reported on the route and police are advising people to avoid the area entirely if possible.

North Petherton Carnival, which was due to be held just to the north of the crash site on Saturday night, has been cancelled as a mark of respect.

BBC News - Seven confirmed dead in M5 accident in Somerset