A fatal multi-vehicle collision on the M27 has claimed the life of a man in his 30s and led to the arrest of three individuals. The crash involved a Mercedes lorry, a Nissan Juke, and a Volkswagen Polo, and occurred just after 12:30pm on Wednesday on the westbound carriageway at Junction 5.
Emergency crews responded promptly to reports of the serious collision. Despite their efforts, the lorry driver was pronounced dead at the scene. Specialist officers are currently supporting the grieving family following this tragic loss.
The crash caused the closure of the westbound M27 between Junction 7 at Hedge End and Junction 5 near Southampton Airport, leading to significant traffic delays extending into rush hour. To assist emergency responders, lanes three and four on the eastbound side were also closed.
The situation worsened when the involved lorry caught fire several hours later, damaging a motorway gantry and contributing to further disruption.
Police have launched a full investigation and arrested three suspects—a 32-year-old man, a 37-year-old man, and a 40-year-old woman—all homeless, on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. The suspects remain in custody and are currently receiving hospital care.
Officers continue to work at the scene, with motorway closures between Junctions 5 and 7 expected to remain in place overnight. Drivers are advised to avoid the area and check for updates before travelling tomorrow morning.
Motorists are encouraged to follow the Hollow Square diversion route to avoid the affected section of the motorway:
- Exit M27 westbound at Junction 9
- Take the first exit onto the A27 at the roundabout
- Follow the A27 to Segensworth roundabout
- Take the fifth exit to continue on the A27
- Pass Park Gate and cross the River Hamble to Windhover roundabout
- Take the fourth exit onto the A27
- Continue on A27 West End Road for 1 mile to the next roundabout
- Take the second exit on the A27
- Drive 2 miles through West End to the roundabout with Wide Lane
- Take the second exit onto Wide Lane
- Pass under the M27 to the roundabout
- Take the first exit to A335 Wide Lane roundabout
- Take the first exit onto the A335
- Continue to M27 Junction 5 interchange
- Take the third exit at Junction 5 roundabout to rejoin M27 westbound
Drivers should allow extra travel time or consider alternative routes. For live traffic updates, visit National Highways at trafficengland.com or call 0300 123 5000.
Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward. Anyone with dashcam footage or information about the crash is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 44240076451 or submit details online.
A police spokesperson said: “We apologise for the disruption caused and thank the public for their patience at this difficult time.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
