England: Bus Accident Claims Child's Life, Multiple Injuries Reported - Catastrophic road accident in England: Single fatality among children, numerous casualties reported
In a shocking turn of events, a school bus accident in southwest England has resulted in the tragic loss of a 10-year-old boy. The incident occurred on the A396 at Cutcombe Hill in Somerset, between Wheddon Cross and Timberscombe, around 3:15 PM on Thursday, July 17, 2025.
The coach, operated by Ridlers, was returning from an end-of-term trip to Exmoor Zoo with approximately 60 to 70 passengers, including pupils and staff from Minehead Middle School. The vehicle swerved off the road, overturned, and slid 20 feet down an embankment.
The accident resulted in a total of 21 people being hospitalized with injuries, including two children who were airlifted to the hospital. Unfortunately, the boy who lost his life in the accident was not one of the fortunate ones.
Avon and Somerset Police described the incident as "serious" and declared it a major incident, requiring significant emergency services intervention. An off-duty firefighter played a crucial role in freeing trapped passengers immediately after the crash.
British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed his shock and condolences, stating the incident was "heartbreaking" and acknowledging the efforts of emergency responders. He also shared his thoughts with the parents, family, friends, and all those affected by the accident.
Minehead Middle School was closed on Friday following the incident, as it was five days away from the end of term. The school has not released any further statements regarding the accident or the students' well-being.
The cause of the bus accident remains unknown at this time. Police are investigating the incident, and more information is expected to be released in the coming days.
This tragic event serves as a grim reminder of the importance of road safety, especially when it comes to school transportation. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of the child who lost his life and to all those affected by this devastating accident.
- The community is urged to revisit and adhere strictly to the community policy regarding road safety, particularly in light of the recent incident involving vocational training for bus drivers.
- In the aftermath of the school bus accident, there has been a call for increased focus on vocational training programs for drivers, as a means to prevent future tragedies in the general-news sector and the crime-and-justice category.
