**Man Dies and Woman Critically Injured in Serious Multi-Vehicle Incident in Gwynedd**
A devastating collision involving three vehicles on the A5 Beach Road in Bangor, north Wales, has claimed the life of an elderly man and left a woman fighting for her life in hospital, authorities have confirmed.
The tragic incident unfolded in broad daylight on Tuesday afternoon (29 April), immediately outside the city’s main ambulance station. Emergency services were alerted to the scene just before 1pm, responding to reports of a severe crash involving a Toyota Yaris, a Vauxhall Vivaro, and a flatbed transit vehicle. The force of the collision left several occupants with critical and serious injuries, prompting an extensive emergency response.
North Wales Police, along with the Welsh Ambulance Service, Wales Air Ambulance, and North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, all attended the devastating scene. The involvement of multiple emergency units underscored the severity and complexity of the situation. Rescuers worked urgently to free those trapped in the vehicles and provide immediate medical assistance.
The driver of the Toyota Yaris, identified as an elderly male, suffered grave injuries and was airlifted by helicopter to the Royal Stoke University Hospital—a move often reserved for patients with the most severe trauma. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, he sadly succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of Wednesday morning (30 April).
In addition, the female passenger of the same car was transported to Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor, where she remains in a critical condition. Authorities have not released further details regarding her identity, respecting the family’s privacy as they await news. Both women travelling in the Vauxhall Vivaro were also taken to Ysbyty Gwynedd and are reported to have sustained “serious injuries”. Information about the occupants of the flatbed transit vehicle has not been provided at this stage.
The impact of the crash led to a complete closure of the A5 Beach Road for several hours, causing significant disruption to traffic and local residents. Forensic collision investigators were present at the site, meticulously gathering evidence to establish the circumstances leading up to the incident. North Wales Police have since reopened the road, and extended their thanks to the public for their patience and cooperation during the investigation.
Detective Inspector Tim Evans of the Serious Collision Investigation Unit conveyed condolences, saying, “Our thoughts are firmly with the man’s family at this incredibly difficult time. We know this news will deeply affect those who knew him, as well as the wider community.” He continued, “We are grateful to those who have already come forward, but would urge anyone who witnessed the collision—or who may have been travelling along Beach Road in the moments prior—to speak to us. Dash cam footage that may have captured the incident or the moments preceding it could provide vital insights.”
The police have appealed for witnesses, particularly motorists with dash cam recordings from the surrounding area around the time of the collision. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact North Wales Police via their live webchat facility or by calling 101, quoting reference number 25000354477.
Incidents such as this highlight the ever-present risks on roadways, and the profound impact such tragedies have not just on the immediate families, but also on emergency workers and the local community. Road safety remains a paramount concern for local authorities, and this tragedy serves as a sober reminder of the importance of vigilance and care behind the wheel.
As the investigation continues, police urge the public to provide any information that may assist in understanding how the events unfolded. The thoughts of many are with those affected by this heartbreaking event.