Two serious injuries after M5 crashes prompt long closure in Devon
Police say the M5 remains closed in both directions between Sampford Peverell and Cullompton as investigations continue; motorists urged to seek alternate routes and allow extra time.
Two multi-vehicle crashes on the M5 in Devon left several people seriously injured and led to a full closure of the motorway in both directions between Junction 27 at Sampford Peverell and Junction 28 at Cullompton. Police said the incidents were reported at about 21:50 and 23:10 on Thursday, and the road has been shut since around 23:00 BST while responders work at the scene. The crashes disrupted one of the region’s busiest routes and prompted travel delays across the surrounding road network.
Devon and Cornwall Police said the closures are likely to remain in place for at least two more hours as extensive investigations continue. National Highways South West confirmed the shutdown in both directions between J27 and J28 and noted that the delays were affecting rush hour travel. Investigators are assessing the scenes, gathering witness statements, and coordinating with emergency services as recovery teams work to clear wreckage.
Officials urged motorists to use alternative routes and to allow extra time for journeys. Devon County Council said there were higher-than-usual volumes around Cullompton and Willand as drivers diverted away from the closure. Bristol Airport advised travelers to seek an alternative route.
National Highways said at about 07:50 on Friday that the road would remain closed most of the morning due to the ongoing investigations. Police noted that a number of people were seriously injured and that the situation remained dynamic. The shutdown has also complicated freight and commuter flows, affecting local businesses and residents.
Recovery crews worked through the night, using equipment to remove vehicles and secure the scene, while investigators inspected road surfaces and collected evidence. Police asked for patience as the investigation continues and said there was no immediate information about the cause of the crashes.
Travelers planning to pass near Cullompton and Willand were advised to check official traffic updates and heed local advisories as the morning progresses. Officials emphasized that closures and diversions could change as work proceeds, and urged people to consider alternate routes and public transport where possible.
Authorities will provide updates as more information becomes available.