A tragic incident on the M5 motorway in Somerset has claimed the life of an 18-year-old who was struck by a car after leaving an ambulance where he was receiving treatment.
Details of the Fatal Collision
The young man was being transported to hospital along the northbound carriageway between junctions 20 and 21 late on Sunday night. Sometime after 11pm, he exited the stationary ambulance while paramedics were attempting to provide further care.
An off-duty police officer who came across the scene tried to guide the teenager to safety at the roadside. Despite these efforts, the patient was hit by a vehicle travelling in the southbound direction. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Road Closure and Official Response
The major motorway was closed in both directions following the collision and did not reopen until Monday morning, causing significant disruption.
Assistant Chief Constable Joanne Hall expressed the force's condolences, stating: "Our thoughts are with the man’s family at such a devastating time. We will support them in any way we can."
She acknowledged the profound impact on emergency crews present, confirming that welfare support was being arranged for all staff and witnesses involved.
Independent Investigation Launched
A mandatory referral has been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) by the force's Professional Standards Department. The police watchdog has begun an independent investigation into the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
"It’s already begun an independent investigation into the circumstances, which we will fully cooperate with," Assistant Chief Constable Hall confirmed.
The investigation will seek to establish a clear timeline of events leading to the teenager's death on the motorway.
