The close-knit town of Minehead is mourning a devastating tragedy following a school outing that ended in the death of a 10-year-old boy. On Thursday, July 17, a coach carrying between 60 and 70 passengers, mostly children from Minehead Middle School, crashed near Cutcombe Hill. The bus overturned and slid down a 20-foot embankment on its route back from Exmoor Zoo, leaving families and the community heartbroken.
Two children were airlifted to Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, while four other children and three adults remained hospitalized in Somerset as of Friday. Emergency services, including an off-duty firefighter who was quick to assist, worked tirelessly at the scene to rescue passengers. While most people managed to escape the wreckage on their own, several had to be cut free by fire crews.
Avon and Somerset Police confirmed the heartbreaking news that a 10-year-old boy died as a result of the crash. Identification is ongoing, with specially trained officers supporting the boy’s family. Chief Superintendent Mark Edgington expressed gratitude to the 24 volunteers from Exmoor Search and Rescue for their crucial first aid triage and supported the staff at the Rest and Be Thankful pub at Wheddon Cross, which served as a rest centre for those affected.
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The police continue to appeal for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage of the collision to come forward, urging the public to avoid speculation on social media to spare additional distress for victims, families, and the school community.
The loss has deeply impacted Minehead Middle School. Headteacher Laura Mackie described the event as “completely heartbroken” and “unimaginable," extending thoughts to the student who passed away, their family, and the entire school community. Teachers and students have shown tremendous resilience, supporting one another through this traumatic experience.
The bus driver, currently in hospital with multiple injuries, is reported to be in stable condition. Peter Prior-Sankey, director of Ridlers Coaches, expressed devastation over the incident and appreciation for emergency responders, also reassuring that the company is providing support to its staff and working closely with Somerset Council.
Exmoor Zoo shared its sorrow on social media, describing the fate of the children as “cruel,” while local MP Rachel Gilmour conveyed her deep sadness and determination to support the community, including seeking funding for follow-up therapies for affected children.
The road where the crash occurred remains closed for recovery and investigation efforts, leaving Minehead in a state of mourning and reflection on a tragedy that has touched so many lives.