TWO people have been killed in a crash involving several cars and a lorry on the M5 in Somerset this morning.

Emergency services were called to the scene on the southbound carraigeway between J24 Bridgwater and J25 Taunton at 8.30am today (Thursday, September 13).

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Police said: "Sadly two people were pronounced dead at the scene. Four other people have been taken to hospital, at least two of whom have serious injuries."

The road had been left closed in both directions between junction 24 southbound and junction 25 northbound, Taunton.

However the northbound carraigeway has re-opened as of 12.15pm, but police said parts of the road will remain closed through rush hour.

UPDATE: The M5 is reported to have reopened in both directions. 8pm

A HGV and six cars were involved in the incident on the southbound M5 near to junction 24, Huntworth.

The female driver of one car and the male passenger of another car sadly were pronounced dead at the scene.

Two women from the same two vehicles were taken to Southmead hospital with serious injuries.

Specially trained family liaison officers will support the families.

Two other people went to Musgrove Park Hospital for treatment to injuries not believed life-threatening or life-changing and one person was treated at the scene and released.

Inspector Frazer Davey said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have lost their lives or been injured on the M5 today.

“While I appreciate how disruptive the road closure is I’m sure people will understand our need to carry out a thorough investigation to establish exactly how this happened.

“I’d like to thank people for their patience while the emergency teams are working at the scene and as the vehicles are being recovered."

The police spokesman continued: "We’re deploying well-rehearsed plans to release motorists currently held in the road closure.

"It’s important for motorists to remain in their vehicles to avoid further unnecessary delay."


Somerset County Gazette:
BACKED UP: Traffic on routes around the M5