A teenage girl has died after a late-night crash on the M5. The motorway has been closed since around 11pm on Monday, November 11 following the collision, which involved a pedestrian and a car, police have said.
The pedestrian, a 17-year-old girl died at the scene. Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by a specially trained officer. Avon and Somerset Police said in a statement a mandatory referral has been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to recent prior police contact.
The motorway is still closed in both directions and Avon and Somerset Police said it is likely to stay closed “for some time” while an investigation is carried out at the scene. Diversion routes are in place around the closure ahead of the morning rush hour commute.
Police are now appealing for information from anyone who witnessed the crash, or has dashcam footage which could aid the investigation. Please contact Avon and Somerset Police on 101 and give the call handler the reference of log number 1170 of November 11.
National Highways said: “The M5 in Somerset is closed in both directions between J24 (Bridgwater) and J25 (Taunton) due to an Avon and Somerset Police-led incident.
“National Highways have resources in attendance assisting with traffic management. Due to the nature of the incident, the road is expected to be closed for a lengthy period allow for investigation work to take place.”