Teenage patient, 18, is hit and killed by a car on the M5 after leaving an ambulance while being treated on the side of motorway
A teenager died after being hit by a car on the M5 shortly after getting out of an ambulance on the side of the motorway.
The 18-year-old was being taken to hospital Sunday when the vehicle stopped on the northbound highway between junctions 20 and 21.
Paramedics attempted to provide further treatment to the patient, who decided to exit the ambulance after 11 p.m.
The police officer on duty who encountered the incident tried to take the man on the side of the road to a safe place.
However, a short time later, he died at the scene after being hit by a car heading south.
Avon and Somerset Police said his family were being updated and supported by a specially trained liaison officer.
Police added that the M5 was then closed until Monday morning to allow officers to investigate the scene.
Avon and Somerset Police also contacted the Independent Office for Police Conduct following the incident.
A teenager died after being hit by a car between junctions 20 and 21 of the M5 (pictured) shortly after leaving the ambulance.
Assistant Chief Constable Joanne Hall said: ‘Our thoughts are with the man’s family at such a devastating time. We will give them all the support we can.
‘This incident has had a significant impact on our officers and ambulance crews, who are understandably upset by what happened.
‘As well as providing support to the man’s family, we are ensuring that appropriate welfare arrangements are in place for our staff and also for members of the public who were directly involved or witnessed the incident.
‘A mandatory referral has been made by our Professional Standards Department to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). ‘An independent investigation has been launched into the situation and we will cooperate fully.’
