An early morning crash on the M5 motorway between Bridgwater and Dunball has left one woman dead and led to prolonged road closures as investigators work to understand the details surrounding the incident. According to police reports, the collision occurred shortly before 3 a.m. on March 23, 2025, on the northbound carriageway between junctions 24 and 23.
The incident involved a lorry and a pedestrian. Emergency services, including police, ambulance, and fire crews, responded swiftly, but tragically, the woman, who was in her 70s, was pronounced dead at the scene despite their best efforts. "A woman has died after a collision on the M5 near Bridgwater this morning," an Avon and Somerset Police representative confirmed. Her next of kin has been informed, and the police are providing updates to them.
Due to the seriousness of the crash, both directions of the M5 were closed between junctions 24 (Bridgwater) and 23 (Dunball) for several hours. The southbound carriageway reopened earlier in the morning after the necessary investigation work was completed. However, the northbound lane remained shut. "The motorway was closed in both directions while investigative inquiries were completed," police noted.
National Highways reported that the investigation would continue throughout the morning, and drivers were warned to brace for delays. "We were called at 2.48 a.m. today to reports of the incident," the police spokesperson continued. "The police, ambulance, and fire services are at the scene, and the motorway has been closed in both directions while they respond.”
Traffic monitoring site Inrix reported that speeds in the area had reduced to just 10 mph due to the congested traffic caused by this serious accident. To ease the pressure on the visible flow, diversion routes were established. Northbound traffic was advised to follow guidance on solid triangle diversion symbols, exiting the M5 at J24 and continuing on the A38 to navigate around the closure. Southbound traffic followed similar procedures, with indications leading them off the motorway to avoid gridlock.
Eyewitness accounts and dashcam footage are crucial for the investigation. Local authorities are calling on anyone who witnessed the collision or who has relevant footage to come forward. "Police are asking anyone who saw the collision or may have dashcam footage to get in touch," the police spokesperson urged.
The M5 serves as a vital transport route, particularly in Somerset, where congestion and delays impact not only daily commuters but also longer-distance travelers. The re-opening of the northbound lane remains uncertain, as the ongoing investigation must be conducted thoroughly, ensuring that all aspects are examined to prevent future incidents.
The collision has cast a shadow over an otherwise quiet Sunday morning, with community sympathies focused on the victim's family. As the police continue their investigations and traffic begins to return to normal, it remains a poignant reminder of the perils that can arise on busy roadways. National Highways continues to monitor the situation, providing updates as they develop.
