A pedestrian has died following a devastating collision involving a lorry on the M4 near Swindon, prompting the closure of the eastbound carriageway for several hours. Emergency services were called to the incident on the eastbound carriageway near Membury Services at around 8.30am on Thursday (6 August). The pedestrian suffered catastrophic injuries after being struck by at least one vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Major emergency response
A Scania tractor unit towing a Gregory trailer was involved in the collision and was seen with significant front-end damage. Thames Valley Police launched a forensic collision investigation, while officers from Wiltshire Police and paramedics from the South Western Ambulance Service were among the first emergency responders to arrive. Although the collision occurred in Berkshire, emergency services from neighbouring Wiltshire also attended due to the location close to the county border.
Motorway closed
The eastbound M4 remains closed between Junction 15 (Swindon) and Junction 14 (Hungerford) while specialist collision investigators examine the scene. The closure has led to significant congestion, with long queues forming on the approach to Junction 15 and motorists being diverted away from the motorway. Traffic is also reported to be heavy on the A346 towards Marlborough, where increased traffic volumes and existing roadworks are causing further delays.
Police statement
In a statement, a spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said:
“We are currently dealing with a road traffic collision on the M4.
“Junction 15-14 on eastbound, near Membury Services is shut.
“There are significant delays and growing tailbacks in the area, and traffic on the westbound carriageway may also be affected.
“Please avoid the area if possible and consider alternative routes while emergency services work at the scene.”
Appeal for witnesses
The circumstances leading up to the collision remain under investigation. Thames Valley Police have not yet released the identity of the deceased and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant dashcam footage to come forward to assist enquiries. Motorists are advised to continue avoiding the area where possible while the investigation and recovery operation continue.
Originally published by UKNIP.
