The M5 in Somerset remains closed in both directions after a fatal collision involving a 17-year-old girl and a car late on Monday night. Avon and Somerset Police confirmed the incident occurred around 11:00 pm between junctions 24, for Bridgwater, and 25, for Taunton. The young pedestrian tragically died at the scene, and her family has been informed. No one else was injured in the incident.

National Highways stated that the motorway is expected to remain closed throughout Tuesday morning to allow police investigations to be completed and necessary repairs to be made to ensure the road’s safety. A diversion is in place along the A38 between the two junctions, but authorities are advising motorists to avoid the area and check traffic updates due to significant delays on local roads, particularly the A38 near North Petherton and Bridgwater.

The collision took place near Creech Heathfield, close to Taunton. Police have made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to recent prior contact with the girl.

Authorities are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from the area at the time of the accident to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.