**Child Tragically Killed and Several Injured in M4 Minibus Rollover Near Berkshire**
A devastating road traffic collision on the M4 motorway has resulted in the death of a child and left several others seriously injured. The incident, which occurred on a motorway slip road near Berkshire, led to the significant closure of the motorway and has sparked a large emergency response.
Sunday saw the usually busy M4 brought to a standstill following reports that a minibus had overturned on the slip road connecting the motorway’s eastbound carriageway to the A329M at Junction 10. Motorists were faced with severe disruptions as both eastbound and westbound routes near the scene were closed down, with police urging drivers to seek alternative routes and avoid the area altogether.
Thames Valley Police provided an update confirming that the single-vehicle collision involved only the minibus, and no arrests have been made as part of their ongoing investigation. Authorities stated: “Sadly, a child died in the collision and our thoughts remain with the family who are being supported at this extremely difficult time.” They also noted that other passengers had suffered serious injuries that required immediate medical attention and hospital treatment.
As of late Sunday, emergency services remained at the scene, including paramedics, fire crews, and numerous police units. National Highways issued an alert shortly after 2.45pm, announcing that the M4 would be closed for an extended period between junctions 8 and 11 as emergency and recovery teams responded to the major incident. The slip road where the crash occurred remains closed, with diversions put in place in an attempt to alleviate mounting congestion.
The impact of the incident rippled far beyond the immediate area. Congestion quickly built up along the westbound carriageway between junctions 8 and 9, especially around the approach to Maidenhead and connections with the A308M and A404M. Compounding the issues, further delays were caused by additional breakdowns in the area, and there were also reports of a vehicle fire affecting traffic between junctions 7 and 8.
Motorists travelling towards London faced journey times up to thirty minutes longer than usual, with queues stretching to approximately three miles at the height of the disruption. Local authorities and highways officials continued to advise road users to avoid the M4 whenever possible, with alternative routes signposted for those needing to complete their journeys.
Police reiterated the seriousness of the situation, explaining that the road closures would remain “for the foreseeable future” as investigations got underway and recovery operations continued. Traffic officers, forensic teams, and clean-up crews worked late into Sunday to manage the aftermath of the crash, while accident investigators aimed to establish the cause of the minibus overturning.
The news of the child’s death has shocked local communities and prompted public expressions of sympathy for the affected family. This tragic event highlights the dangers present on the UK’s busy motorway network and serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road safety for all travellers.
Authorities have also extended thanks to drivers for their patience during the emergency operation and have asked members of the public to stay away from the area while work concludes. The incident is expected to have continued knock-on effects for journeys throughout Monday until the motorway is fully reopened and investigation work is completed.
Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident is urged to contact Thames Valley Police to assist with their enquiries, as efforts continue to uncover the circumstances behind this heartbreaking accident.