A devastating crash on the M27 has left one man dead and led to the arrest of three individuals after a collision involving multiple vehicles, including a lorry, brought traffic to a halt on the major motorway.

The incident unfolded shortly after 12:30 pm on Wednesday at junction five on the westbound lanes of the M27. Emergency services rushed to the scene following reports of a serious multi-vehicle crash involving a Mercedes lorry, Nissan Juke, and Volkswagen Polo.

Despite the efforts of paramedics, the driver of the lorry, a man in his 30s, was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. Specially trained officers are providing support to his grieving family after they were notified of the devastating loss.

The crash resulted in the closure of the westbound carriageway between junctions seven in Hedge End and five for Southampton Airport, disrupting traffic well into rush hour. Additionally, lanes three and four of the eastbound carriageway were closed to facilitate the emergency response.

Hours after the initial collision, the situation escalated when the lorry involved in the crash caught fire, causing further damage to the area, including a gantry.

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision has been launched, with authorities taking swift action to apprehend those believed to be responsible. Three individuals, a 32-year-old man, a 37-year-old man, and a 40-year-old woman, all without fixed abode, have been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. They are currently in custody after being taken to the hospital.

As the investigation continues, officers remain at the scene, and the closure of the westbound carriageway between junctions five and seven is expected to remain in place overnight. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and to check for updates before embarking on their journeys in the morning.

A police spokesperson expressed regret for any inconvenience caused by the closures and thanked the public for their patience during this challenging time.

Authorities are urging anyone with information or dashcam footage related to the incident to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation. Witnesses are encouraged to contact the police by calling 101 and quoting reference number 44240076451 or by submitting information online.

Diversion Route

Motorists are advised to follow the Hollow Square diversion symbol on road signs. The diversion route is as follows:

1. Exit the M27 westbound at Junction 9.
2. At the roundabout, take the first exit and join the A27.
3. Follow the A27 to the Segensworth roundabout.
4. At the roundabout, take the fifth exit and continue on the A27.
5. Follow the A27 for approximately 3 miles, passing through Park Gate/Sarisbury and over the River Hamble, until reaching the Windhover roundabout.
6. Take the fourth exit and continue on the A27.
7. Follow the A27 West End Road for approximately 1 mile to the next roundabout.
8. At the roundabout, take the second exit and continue on the A27.
9. Continue on the A27 for approximately 2 miles, passing through West End to a roundabout with Wide Lane.
10. Take the second exit and join Wide Lane.
11. Continue on Wide Lane passing beneath the M27 to a roundabout.
12. Take the first exit and continue to the A335 Wide Lane roundabout.
13. Take the first exit and join the A335.
14. Continue to the M27 Junction 5 interchange.
15. At the Junction 5 roundabout, take the third exit to re-join the M27 westbound.

Plan Ahead

Drivers are urged to allow extra journey time and consider alternative routes or delaying their journeys if possible. Further information is available from National Highways via the trafficengland.com website, travel apps, or by contacting the 24/7 contact centre team at 0300 123 5000.

The closure and diversion route may cause significant disruption to travel plans, and motorists are advised to plan accordingly to minimize inconvenience.