M5 reopens after teenager dies in collision

A 17-year-old girl has tragically lost her life following a serious collision on the M5 motorway late Monday night, prompting an extensive emergency response and significant traffic disruption.

The incident occurred at around 11pm today (November 11) when emergency services rushed to the scene of the accident between Taunton and Bridgwater. Avon and Somerset Police immediately closed the motorway in both directions to allow for a full investigation of the site.

The road remained shut through the early hours, with the northbound carriageway finally reopening at approximately 10.15am. Tuesday. By 11am both directions of the motorway had reopened However, traffic chaos persisted, with lengthy delays affecting travel across the area.

Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that a teenage girl died at the scene. Her next of kin have been informed, and specially trained officers are providing support to the grieving family.

Due to prior police contact with the girl, the force has made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct to ensure transparency in the investigation.

Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could assist the inquiry. Witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from the area are urged to contact police by calling 101 and referencing log number 1170 of November 11.

Motorists were still facing significant congestion this afternoon along the M5 corridor, with residual delays expected to take time to clear. Drivers are advised to plan ahead and check for updates before setting out on their journeys.