Third person dead following M4 crash between minibus and lorry
All three of those killed in the crash were members of staff at a special school in Berkshire.
A third person has died following a motorway crash between a lorry and a minibus carrying staff and pupils from a special school.
The minibus driver, a member of staff at Prior’s Court Foundation school for children with autism in Berkshire, died in hospital following the crash on the M4 on Thursday afternoon, Thames Valley Police said.
Two other members of staff were pronounced dead at the scene.
Another two staff members remain in a critical condition in hospital, while one pupil required surgery on their leg and a further two escaped with minor injuries.
Mike Robinson, CEO of the school, said the news is “utterly devastating”.
“At the same time, we feel unbelievably blessed that the three young people they were working with yesterday escaped with more minor injuries,” he added.
Emergency services were called to a stretch of the M4 in Berkshire at 12.20pm on Thursday after the two vehicles collided between junction 14 at Hungerford and junction 13 at Chieveley, heading in the eastbound direction.
The motorway was temporarily closed in both directions so air ambulances could land and there was heavy congestion on the roads.
The driver of the lorry escaped the crash with minor injuries.
Inspector Andy Storey of the Road Policing Team said: “No-one has been arrested at this time. The ongoing investigation will seek to establish what happened in this tragic incident.
“Our thoughts remain with all of those involved in this collision. Specially-trained family liaison officers are providing support to the families and we are in regular contact with the school.”
Anyone who saw the crash or has dash-cam footage is urged to contact the police on 101.
