M23 and M25 Shut After Deadly Three-Vehicle Crash Near Horley
The M23 and part of the M25 have been slammed shut in both directions following a fatal smash on the new stretch of smart motorway.
Motorcyclist Dies at Scene Despite Emergency Efforts
A motorbike rider tragically died after being thrown from his bike in a three-vehicle collision close to Horley. Paramedics and an air ambulance rushed to the scene but couldn’t save him.
Thousands Stranded in Traffic Chaos
The closures have trapped thousands of drivers. Police and Highways England teams are directing vehicles away from the scene, warning motorists to stay in their cars and avoid walking on the carriageway.
What We Know About the Incident
Surrey Police’s Road Collision Investigation Unit is working alongside Roads Policing officers to probe the crash. A spokesperson for Highways England confirmed:
“The M23 in Surrey is closed both ways between Junctions 8 and 9 due to a collision on the southbound carriageway. Surrey Police and emergency services, including the air ambulance, are on scene. The northbound carriageway was initially closed for the air ambulance but remains shut as incident screens are put up. Once these are in place, the northbound side will reopen.”
“The southbound carriageway will stay closed for an extended period while a full collision investigation takes place. Traffic trapped between J8 and J9 will be turned around to exit at J8.”
Long Delays and Diversion Routes
Drivers heading southbound should follow the ‘Hollow Diamond’ diversion: travel clockwise on the M25 to Junction 6 (A22), then take the A22 southbound for nearly 9 miles to the A264. Turn right on the A264 and continue for 5 miles to M23 Junction 10.
Northbound drivers must follow the ‘Solid Square’ diversion: exit at M23 J10, take the A264 northbound for 5 miles, then left onto the A22 northbound for 9 miles back to M25 J6.
Delays are expected both on the motorways and diversion routes. Drivers are urged to plan extra time for their journeys.
More updates to follow as the investigation continues.
