Two Dead After Roofers’ Van Crashes and Burns on M40 Near Beaconsfield
Tragedy struck today on the busy M40 motorway near Beaconsfield as a roofing van crashed, killing two men instantly. The single-vehicle smash happened just before 3.45pm on the northbound carriageway between junctions 3 and 4.
Roofers’ Van Hits Tree and Catches Fire
The silver Renault Trafic, owned by Midlands-based SIG Roofspace, veered off the nearside carriageway and smashed into trees before bursting into flames. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, including fire service, ambulance, and air ambulance, but sadly the driver and a rear-seat passenger died at the site.
- The driver, 22, and passenger, 31, both from Warwickshire, were declared dead at the scene.
- Two other passengers escaped with minor injuries and were taken to hospital.
M40 Shut for Hours, Causing Chaos on Surrounding Roads
Police closed the motorway for hours while collision investigators combed the wreckage on the three-lane stretch. The closure extended back to junction 2 (Beaconsfield), causing heavy delays and gridlock on nearby routes.
Authorities have recovered a mobile phone at the crash site but have not confirmed if phone use was a factor.
Police Appeal for Witnesses to Fatal M40 Crash
“Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the two men who died today,” said PC Richard Martin of Roads Policing. “We do not believe another vehicle was involved but we want to hear from anyone who saw the van before or during the collision.”
Anyone with information is urged to call Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting reference URN 982 29/3, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously.
