Six children remain in hospital after coach crash near Minehead
A 10 year old boy died in the collision on Thursday
Last updated 18th Jul 2025
Nine people, including six children, remain in hospital following a coach crash near Minehead.
A 10-year-old boy died in the collision yesterday afternoon (17 July) on the A396 at Cutcombe Hill, between Wheddon Cross and Timberscombe.
No formal identification has yet taken place, but a specially trained police officer is supporting the family.
Avon and Somerset Police said two children airlifted to Bristol Royal Hospital for Children by air ambulance continued to be treated.
Four children and three adults remain in hospital in Somerset.
The vehicle left the road at around 3pm, overturned and stopped about 20 feet (six metres), down a steep slope.
Up to 70 people - children and adults travelling to Minehead Middle School - were on board the coach as it returned from a trip to Exmoor Zoo.
Minehead Middle School, which caters for pupils aged between nine and 14, and is five days away from the end of term, remained closed on Friday.
On Friday, a stream of people came to the school to pay respects, leaving floral tributes and messages at the gates.
Many were visibly upset and could be seen hugging and supporting each other.
The driver of the coach is reported to be in a stable condition but has suffered "a number of injuries".
Chief Superintendent Mark Edgington said: "On behalf of the emergency services I would like to thank the 24 volunteers from Exmoor Search and Rescue who carried out first aid triage at the rest centre and have rope and search skills. "
"I also pass on thanks to the staff of the Rest and Be Thankful pub at Wheddon Cross, which opened its doors as the rest centre."
"Of course, we also recognise the efforts of Minehead Middle School, for keeping parents and carers informed and providing support to the school community during what is a difficult and distressing time for them all."
Officers say that the vehicle recovery and collision investigation are complex, and they expect the road to continue to be closed for some time.
Chief Superintendent Edgington added: "We continue to appeal for anyone who witnessed the collision or has any dashcam footage which could be relevant to contact us. Please call 101 and give the reference 5225201782."
"Please avoid speculating about the circumstances on social media, to prevent additional distress for the children, their families, the school community, staff and the driver, who are all deeply affected by what’s happened."
“Our thoughts go out to all those involved, their families, friends and colleagues.”