A devastating collision between a car and a heavy goods vehicle on the M1 motorway has resulted in the deaths of three people, emergency services have confirmed.
The fatal incident occurred on Friday afternoon between junctions 15 and 16 near Buckinghamshire, prompting a massive emergency response that saw the motorway closed for several hours during the investigation.
Emergency Response and Motorway Closure
Thames Valley Police were called to the scene alongside multiple ambulance crews and fire services at approximately 3:45 PM. Despite the efforts of paramedics, all three occupants of the car were pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the lorry, while shaken, sustained only minor injuries and is currently assisting police with their enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Major Traffic Disruption
The catastrophic crash caused significant disruption throughout Friday afternoon and evening, with National Highways implementing a full closure of the southbound carriageway between the affected junctions.
Long queues formed as traffic was diverted via local routes, with delays stretching back several miles during the peak travel period. The motorway remained closed for several hours while collision investigators examined the scene.
Police Appeal for Witnesses
Investigating officers from Thames Valley Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit have launched a full investigation into the incident and are urging any witnesses to come forward.
Police are particularly interested in speaking to anyone who may have dashcam footage of the moments leading up to the collision. The force has set up a dedicated incident room and is following multiple lines of enquiry to establish the exact sequence of events.
A police spokesperson expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and requested privacy for them during this difficult time.