Cliff Notes
- A tragic coach crash near Minehead, Somerset, resulted in the death of 10-year-old Oliver Price, with two children and three adults still in hospital, though they are in stable condition.
- The coach, carrying 60 to 70 pupils from Minehead Middle School returning from Exmoor Zoo, overturned after leaving the A396, prompting a significant emergency response.
- Investigations are underway by Avon and Somerset Police to determine the cause of the incident, with local support and community tributes evident following the tragedy.
Boy, 10, killed in coach crash near Minehead in Somerset named by police as Oliver Price | UK News
A 10-year-old boy who died in a coach crash while returning from a school trip to a zoo has been named by police as Oliver Price.
Police said two children and three adults remain in hospital, while a number of children were discharged over the weekend, following the tragedy in Minehead, Somerset, on Thursday.
It is understood those still in hospital are in a stable condition.
Oliver died at the scene after the coach left the A396 at Cutcombe Hill, overturned and slid down a 20ft slope – prompting a major incident to be declared before a “significant” emergency response.
It had been carrying 60 to 70 pupils and staff from Minehead Middle School, who were returning from a trip to Exmoor Zoo days before the end of term.
Chief Superintendent Mark Edgington said: “Our thoughts are first and foremost with Oliver’s family at what must be an unimaginably difficult time. We will continue to make sure they’re updated.
“Our investigation is now well under way with officers working tirelessly to find out what caused it. This work is likely to take some time and we’re asking for patience while these inquiries take place.”
He added: “We are extremely grateful for all the support that’s been received locally. This clearly shows how special and close-knit this community is.
“I would like to also thank all the emergency services and voluntary groups who responded for their support as well as everyone in our hospitals who continue to help those who were injured.”
Following the crash, an off-duty firefighter travelling behind the coach was able to start freeing passengers immediately.
Avon and Somerset Police said officers from the serious collision investigation team have been examining the circumstances of the incident.
The coach was recovered on Saturday and will now be subject to a detailed examination by experts.
“Officers have also been taking statements from a number of adults who were either on the coach or were travelling in the area at the time as part of their work to establish the full circumstances of the collision,” a force spokesman said.
“The examination of the scene has been completed, however, the road remains closed while a detailed safety inspection is carried out by Somerset Council.”
Meanwhile well-wishers visited the school, which has pupils aged between nine and 14, to pay their respects and leave tributes at the gates after the crash.
Many were visibly upset and were hugging and supporting each other.
Online fundraisers for those affected had raised more than £33,000 as of this evening.