Tragedy on M4: Child Dies as Minibus Flips
A child has died and several passengers seriously injured after a minibus overturned on the M4 in Berkshire this afternoon. The horrific single-vehicle crash happened around 2:40pm on Sunday, May 11, between junctions 11 (Reading) and 10 (Wokingham) eastbound.
Massive Emergency Response Unfolds
Emergency services rushed to the scene with six ambulances, five critical care units, air ambulances, police, and fire crews. The scale of the incident quickly became clear. A Thames Valley Police spokesperson confirmed the tragic death:
“Sadly, a child died in the collision and our thoughts remain with the family who are being supported at this extremely difficult time.”
Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue and Thames Valley Air Ambulance also attended. Several seriously injured passengers were rushed to hospital.
M4 Motorway Shut in Both Directions
National Highways confirmed major closures on the M4 today:
- Eastbound closed from junction 11 (Reading) to junction 10 (Wokingham)
- Westbound closed between junctions 8/9 (Maidenhead) and 11
- A separate vehicle fire caused delays between junctions 7 and 8 westbound
Traffic jams stretched over three miles with delays of 30-50 minutes. Additional congestion was worsened by broken-down vehicles.
Police Urge Drivers to Steer Clear
Thames Valley Police warned motorists to avoid the area. The road closure is expected to remain for the foreseeable future, with diversions in place causing knock-on congestion on the A329M, A308M, and A404M.
“We would ask motorists to continue to avoid the area. The closure is likely to remain in place for the foreseeable future.”
Witness Appeal and Road Safety Concerns
Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage to contact Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting incident 884 (11/05).
The tragedy has sparked renewed calls for tighter safety checks on group transport, especially where children are passengers. Local councillors have offered condolences and support to the bereaved families.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates and follow HighwaysSEAST and Thames Valley Police on X for live travel alerts.
