A tragic coach crash near Minehead has claimed the life of 10-year-old Oliver Price. The schoolboy suffered fatal head injuries when the vehicle carrying him and dozens of others left the A396 at Cutcombe Hill and plunged down a 20-foot embankment. The incident occurred on July 17 at around 3:15 pm, as the coach was returning Minehead Middle School pupils and staff from a trip to Exmoor Zoo.
Carrying between 60 and 70 children and adults, the coach left the road between Wheddon Cross and Timberscombe before overturning on the steep wooded slope. An off-duty firefighter, who was traveling behind the coach, immediately began assisting in freeing trapped passengers.
At Somerset Coroner’s Court in Wells, assistant coroner Vanessa McKinlay confirmed that Oliver died from head injuries sustained in the crash. Paramedics at the scene declared his death at 5:00 pm. Oliver was found fastened in his seatbelt, seated inside the overturned coach.
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Ms. McKinlay said the inquest will resume on January 14 with a full hearing to include testimonies from adult passengers, witnesses, the coach driver, and expert collision and vehicle examiners. The investigation will explore the events leading up to the crash, the reasons the vehicle left the road, and the medical cause of Oliver’s death.
“My condolences go out to Oliver’s family during this difficult time,” said Ms. McKinlay.
Meanwhile, several children involved in the accident have been discharged from hospital, though two children and three adults remain hospitalized. An online fundraiser supporting those affected has raised over £25,000. The coach has since been recovered and is undergoing thorough examination by specialists.