One dead and three arrested after massive M27 crash shuts motorway
Fatal pile-up at M27 Junction 5
A horrific multi-vehicle smash on the M27 has claimed the life of a man in his 30s and led to three arrests. The crash, involving a Mercedes lorry, Nissan Juke, and Volkswagen Polo, happened just after 12:30pm on Wednesday on the westbound carriageway at Junction 5.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene after reports of the serious collision, but despite their best efforts, the lorry driver was pronounced dead at the site. Specialist officers are supporting his grieving family following the tragic loss.
Major delays as motorway shut down
The smash forced the closure of the westbound M27 between Junction 7 at Hedge End and Junction 5 for Southampton Airport, with traffic grinding to a halt well into rush hour. To aid emergency responders, lanes three and four on the eastbound side were also shut.
Matters worsened when the involved lorry caught fire hours later, damaging a motorway gantry and adding to the chaos.
Three suspects nabbed over deadly crash
Police have launched a full investigation and swiftly arrested three individuals — a 32-year-old man, a 37-year-old man, and a 40-year-old woman — all homeless, on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. They remain in custody, currently under hospital care.
Officers continue to work at the scene, with closures between Junctions 5 and 7 expected overnight. Drivers are urged to avoid the area and stay updated before hitting the road tomorrow morning.
Traffic diversions and how to avoid the chaos
Motorists should follow the Hollow Square diversion route:
- Exit M27 westbound at Junction 9
- Take first exit onto A27 at roundabout
- Follow A27 to Segensworth roundabout
- Take fifth exit to continue on A27
- Pass Park Gate and over River Hamble to Windhover roundabout
- Take fourth exit onto A27
- Continue on A27 West End Road for 1 mile to next roundabout
- Take second exit on A27
- Drive 2 miles through West End to roundabout with Wide Lane
- Take second exit onto Wide Lane
- Pass under M27 to roundabout
- Take first exit to A335 Wide Lane roundabout
- Take first exit onto A335
- Continue to M27 Junction 5 interchange
- Take third exit at Junction 5 roundabout to rejoin M27 westbound
Drivers should allow extra time or consider alternative routes. For live updates, check National Highways via trafficengland.com or call 0300 123 5000.
Police seek witnesses
Authorities are calling for anyone with dashcam footage or information about the crash to come forward. Witnesses should contact police on 101 quoting reference number 44240076451 or submit details online.
A police spokesperson said: “We apologise for the disruption caused and thank the public for their patience at this difficult time.”
