Injured Minehead Schoolboy Struggles to Recall Coach Crash

Jayden, a schoolboy who survived a devastating coach crash on the A396, is recovering from a broken collarbone but struggles to remember the moment the vehicle overturned. The Ridlers coach, carrying around 60 to 70 passengers returning from a day trip to Exmoor Zoo on Thursday, July 18, veered off the road and slid 20 feet down a steep ravine.

Tragically, one 10-year-old child lost their life in the accident, while 21 others sustained injuries. Emergency services airlifted two children to Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, and several others, including four children and three adults, remain hospitalized in Somerset.

Jayden recalls little about the crash itself. Speaking to the BBC, he mentioned that he was hiding a toy from a friend just before the coach overturned. “I just remember climbing up the hill to get back on the road and that’s it,” he said while laying flowers alongside his mother outside Minehead Middle School. Although in pain, Jayden assured everyone he is “alright” despite the discomfort.

The collision caused the coach to come to rest roughly 20 feet below the A396 on a steep slope, complicating recovery and investigation efforts. Officials anticipate that the road will remain closed for some time.

Chief Superintendent Mark Edgington expressed gratitude to the 24 volunteers from Exmoor Search and Rescue who performed first aid triage and search operations, as well as to the staff of the Rest and Be Thankful pub at Wheddon Cross, which served as a support center. He also praised Minehead Middle School for assisting the school community during this difficult time.

Edgington urged witnesses to come forward and requested that the public refrain from speculation on social media to avoid causing further distress to the victims, their families, and those affected by the crash. “Our thoughts go out to all those involved, their families, friends, and colleagues,” he said.