Fatal Crash Closes M1 Southbound Near Leicester – Major Delays and Diversions in Place

Fatal Crash Shuts M1 Southbound Near Leicester

The M1 is shut southbound between Junctions 22 (Markfield) and 21 (Leicester) following a deadly collision. Emergency services, including Leicestershire Police and National Highways, are racing to the scene.

Serious Collision at Leicester Forest East

The smash happened close to Leicester Forest East services. Witnesses spotted a police tent shielding a body on the road, confirming the tragic severity of the crash. The entire southbound carriageway remains closed while officers carry out a full investigation.

Emergency Response and Traffic Chaos

Leicestershire Police are leading the probe into the horror crash. National Highways teams are on hand to manage traffic and guide drivers away from the scene. Motorists are strongly urged to avoid this stretch and follow official diversions.

How to Beat the M1 Shutdown – Diversion Details

• From M1 Junction 22 Southbound:
  1. Leave the M1 at Junction 22 and take the A50 eastbound.
  2. Drive through Field Head, Bradgate Hill, and Lena Drive junctions to the A50/A46 interchange.
  3. Follow the A563 southbound, navigating several junctions and roundabouts to rejoin the M1 at Junction 21.
• From M1 Junction 21a and A46 Southbound:
  1. Exit the A46 at the B5380 Kirby Muxloe Interchange, then head northbound on the A46.
  2. Continue west on the A50 and follow the standard diversion signs to get back onto the M1 at Junction 21.

Expect Major Delays – Plan Ahead

Severe traffic jams are expected to worsen as the closure could last for hours. Drivers should add plenty of extra time to journeys or find alternative routes.

Police Appeal for Witnesses

Leicestershire Police urge anyone who saw the crash or has dashcam footage to come forward. Call 101 quoting incident CAD 615/01Dec.

Stay tuned for live updates on this developing story.