The M40 motorway remains closed in both directions following a tragic collision that claimed the lives of two men. The accident occurred late Monday night, March 24, 2025, and has further complicated the morning commute for many drivers.
Details are still emerging, but the Thames Valley Police have confirmed that the collision took place shortly after 10.40pm on Monday between junctions 9 (Bicester) and 8A (Tiddington). Emergency crews were dispatched to the scene where two men were found dead, while two others sustained serious injuries and were rushed to hospital.
The ongoing investigation has prompted authorities to keep the M40 closed to facilitate thorough examination of the crash site. Traffic is expected to remain congested as diversions are put in place. A spokesperson from National Highways noted, “The M40 is closed in both directions between J9 (Bicester) and J8A (Tiddington) following a serious collision. Traffic caught within the closures has been released via a combination of rearward relief and being escorted slowly past the scene.”
Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes or to delay their travel if possible, as the road closure is likely to extend into the afternoon. The recommended diversion route for southbound traffic involves exiting the M40 at J9 and taking the A34 south toward Oxford. Drivers will then need to maneuver through several junctions before rejoining the M40 at J8. For those traveling northbound, a similar diversion is set up leading drivers back onto the motorway after navigating the A40 and A4142.
Thames Valley Police, while continuing their investigation, have urged the public to avoid the area, stating, “A full road closure is in place on the M40 in both directions between junction 9 and junction 8A due to a fatal road traffic collision, which occurred at around 10:41pm yesterday (24/3). Two men sadly died at the scene. And two men sustained serious injuries, requiring hospital treatment, where they remain.”
Traffic cameras captured an eerily empty road at a time when it is usually bustling with morning commuters. The closure has already extended waiting times up to 30 minutes above normal, with congestion extending approximately four miles, causing widespread disruption across the region.
The fatal incident adds to what has been a challenging day for drivers on British roads, as multiple serious incidents have led to significant delays on various routes. On the M6, for example, traffic has also been severely impacted due to another collision earlier in the day, illustrating the broader issues of road safety and the ongoing struggles of motorists who face unpredictable travel conditions.
As National Highways continues to monitor the situation, they encourage travelers to stay informed through their website and traffic alerts. They have also provided 24/7 support for real-time updates on the ongoing congestion and road conditions.
In light of this incident, authorities are reiterating the importance of cautious driving and adherence to speed limits, especially during peak travel times when road conditions can become hazardous. Investigating officers will continue to gather evidence and witness statements to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.
Commuters are reminded to check their routes, remain patient while navigating through the diversions, and follow the guidance of traffic management officers on scene.
