A distressing incident on the M5 motorway left emergency service workers devastated after an 18-year-old man lost his life despite efforts to save him.
On the night of Sunday, November 30, an ambulance stopped on the northbound carriageway between junctions 21 (Weston-super-Mare) and 20 (Clevedon) to administer treatment to the young man. At some point, he left the ambulance and walked onto the motorway, putting himself at great risk.
A police officer quickly intervened, attempting to guide him to safety to protect him and other road users. Tragically, shortly after, the man was struck by a southbound vehicle and died at the scene despite the rapid response of emergency services.
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The man’s family have been informed and are receiving support from a specially trained liaison officer.
Assistant Chief Constable Joanne Hall expressed her condolences, stating, “Our thoughts are with the man’s family during this incredibly difficult time. We are committed to supporting them in every way possible.”
She went on to acknowledge the emotional impact this event has had on emergency personnel: “This incident has had a significant effect on our officers and ambulance crews, who are understandably deeply upset.”
Support measures have been put in place not only for staff but also for members of the public who witnessed or were involved in the incident.
In accordance with protocol, a mandatory referral has been submitted to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). Their independent investigation into the circumstances is underway, and police are fully cooperating.
The M5 was temporarily closed to enable emergency response and scene examination but has since reopened as of the morning of December 1.
A correction to earlier reports: an image of a Toadpit Medical Services ambulance was mistakenly associated with this incident. Toadpit Medical Services, which provides medical support at events, was not connected to this tragic event.