One Child Dead, Four Remain Hospitalized After Somerset School Bus Crash

Two boys lay flowers at the school entrance

Four people remain in hospital following a tragic school bus crash in Somerset that claimed the life of a 10-year-old boy, police confirmed in an update Sunday.

The incident occurred on Thursday when a school bus carrying between 60 and 70 people veered off the A396 at Cutcombe Hill near Minehead and slid down a 20-foot embankment. The bus was returning to Minehead Middle School after a Year 5 class trip to Exmoor Zoo.

Two children were airlifted to Bristol Royal Hospital for Children in critical condition, while four other children and three adults were transported to hospitals in Somerset. As of Sunday, two children remain hospitalized in Bristol and two adults are still receiving care in Somerset.

People look at the floral tributes at the entrance to Minehead Middle School

Minehead Middle School, which serves students aged 9 to 14, closed on Friday in the wake of the tragedy, just five days before the end of term. In a somber display of solidarity and grief, community members gathered at the school gates, leaving dozens of floral tributes, balloons, and handwritten messages. Many mourners were visibly emotional, embracing and comforting one another.

Reverend Philip Butcher, vicar of Minehead, spoke to reporters at the school gates, saying the local community was reeling from the devastating news.

“It was absolutely numbing, there are no words to describe what happened yesterday,” he said. “It's an absolute tragedy, and one that’s still very much unfolding. We’re just standing firm with the school and the families at this time, to support them however we can.”

Emergency services near the scene of the bus crash

In response to the incident, several fundraising efforts have been launched to assist the affected families. These campaigns have already raised tens of thousands of pounds, reflecting the depth of public sympathy and support.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer issued a statement expressing his condolences: “There are no adequate words to acknowledge the death of a child. All my thoughts are with their parents, family and friends, and all those affected.”

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by Avon and Somerset Police.