**Emergency Services Free Driver After Major Crash on A40 in Pembrokeshire, Leading to Widespread Traffic Disruption**
In Pembrokeshire, a severe road traffic collision on the A40 left one individual trapped inside a vehicle on Tuesday afternoon, prompting an extensive emergency response. The incident, which took place near Slebech—between Haverfordwest and Canaston Bridge—occurred shortly after 1:30pm and has since caused significant tailbacks and congestion in the surrounding area.
The Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that their crews, dispatched from both Haverfordwest and Narberth fire stations, attended to the scene in the early afternoon. Emergency services, including firefighters, police, and paramedics, worked in tandem to assist those involved. One person, trapped inside one of the vehicles, required extrication by emergency crews before being transferred into the care of waiting ambulances.
Firefighters utilised specialist rescue equipment, including e-draulic spreaders and cutters, to free the casualty from the wreckage. A hose reel jet was also deployed as a precaution at the scene. According to a statement from the fire and rescue service, crews were present from 1:41pm and concluded their operation by 2:55pm.
The collision, which involved two private cars and a heavy goods vehicle, forced authorities to close a substantial section of the A40 shortly after 2pm. As of Tuesday evening, the road closure remained in effect, as police continued with their investigations and recovery crews worked to clear the site. The closure led to extensive diversions, with motorists reporting lengthy delays and mounting frustration.
Some drivers, attempting to avoid congestion on the main route, ventured onto local back roads and country lanes. However, many soon found themselves in miles-long standstill traffic, effectively gridlocked by the volume of diverted vehicles. Footage from the scene revealed motorists stepping out of their vehicles, waiting on the verges amidst the queues, as the magnitude of the disruption became apparent.
One affected motorist described the challenging circumstances: “Everyone’s getting out of their cars, just waiting. Even the back roads are jammed up—it’s completely at a standstill.” Such accounts highlight the ripple effect major incidents can have across regional road networks, particularly in rural areas with fewer diversion options.
Official details about the number of individuals injured in the crash, or the extent of their injuries, have not yet been released. Police at the scene urged drivers to avoid the area where possible and to follow local traffic updates. Recovery operations were still under way by late afternoon, and further assessments were expected as authorities worked to reopen the road safely.
Road safety continues to be a pressing concern in Wales, with the A40 corridor a particularly busy and vital route for both local traffic and freight movements. Today’s events underscore the importance of coordinated emergency responses and the need for patience from road users during such disruptive incidents.
Further updates on the condition of those involved, as well as confirmation of when the A40 will fully reopen, are anticipated from local authorities. In the meantime, officials thanked the public for their understanding and cooperation during the ongoing disruption.
For up-to-date travel information and breaking news, residents are encouraged to monitor alerts from local authorities and transport agencies.