Major Crash Shuts Down M4 as Emergency Crews Rush to Scene
A serious crash has forced the closure of the M4 motorway in both directions this afternoon (Sunday, May 11) as emergency services, including multiple air ambulances, responded to a “very serious” collision near Reading.
The incident took place on the London-bound carriageway between Junction 11 (Reading) and Junction 10 (Wokingham/A329M), where a car overturned on a slip road.
Emergency Response and Air Ambulance Landings
The crash prompted a full closure of the M4 eastbound and westbound to allow emergency helicopters to land directly on the motorway.
National Highways confirmed that two additional air ambulances were inbound shortly after 4pm and that traffic was being held in both directions to accommodate their landing.
“This is a very serious incident involving serious injury. The road is expected to remain closed for some time,” a National Highways spokesperson said.
Thames Valley Police have also advised motorists to avoid the area entirely, warning that the closure will last into the evening.
Traffic Chaos and Delays
Delays of over 50 minutes and more than three miles of congestion have been reported on approach to the closure. Traffic is also building on surrounding diversion routes.
Compounding the chaos, several breakdowns have been reported within the congestion zone, adding to the disruption.
Separate to the main incident, another vehicle fire was reported between J7 and J8 on the westbound carriageway, while police operations briefly halted traffic further west between J15 and J16 (Swindon to Marlborough).
Area Impact and Travel Advice
Affected stretches include:
- J11 to J10 (main crash site, fully closed both directions)
- J8 to J9 westbound (congestion due to breakdowns)
- J7 to J8 westbound (vehicle fire)
- J15 to J16 westbound (brief closure due to police incident)
Drivers are advised to:
- Follow diversion signs
- Avoid the M4 if possible
- Check live updates via National Highways and local radio
Air Ambulance Confirms Deployment
A Thames Valley Air Ambulance spokesperson told Metro:
“We can confirm that our helicopter and a critical care response vehicle were dispatched to provide advanced critical care at an incident on the M4 today.”
The condition of the injured parties has not been disclosed, but early reports suggest at least one person sustained serious injuries.
Witness Appeal
Police are appealing for dashcam footage or witnesses who may have seen the crash or the vehicle involved. Anyone with information is urged to contact Thames Valley Police via 101.
