UPDATE: Man dies after serious collision on the M26

Kent Police have confirmed a man has died following a fatal collision on the motorway

Author: Grace O'HarePublished 20th Mar 2024
Last updated 20th Mar 2024

A man has died following a serious collision on the M26 in Kent.

Kent police are now appealing for witnesses after a fatal collision involving a blue BMW 1 Series and a white VW Caddy.

Emergency services attended the eastbound carriageway between the junctions for Sevenoaks and Wrotham Heath at 11pm last night (19 March), where the driver of the VW, a man in his 30s, was confirmed deceased at the scene.

The other driver suffered minor injuries.

Kent Police, Kent Fire and Rescue Service, South East Coast Ambulance Service and a land unit from Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex all responded to the serious collision on the M26 eastbound where the van left the carriageway.

National Highways Traffic Officers also attended to assist the emergency services with traffic management.

National Highways service providers have since arrived and taken over traffic management at the closure point, allowing Traffic Officers to be relieved from the incident.

Kent Police says there is currently no estimate available for when the carriageway will re-open, however with investigations still ongoing and recovery and clear up required following completion it is expected this mornings peak period will be affected.

Road users are asked to plan ahead and consider allowing extra journey time if travelling in the area this morning.

Traffic is advised to follow the below diversion:

  • At J5 of the M25 continue on the anti-clockwise for approximately 7 miles to J3
  • Exit the M25 anti-clockwise at J3 and at the roundabout take the 4th exit onto the M20 eastbound, towards Dover
  • Remain on the M20 eastbound for approximately 6 miles to J2
  • Exit at J2 and use the A20 to reach M26 J2A (near Wrotham Heath) or continue eastbound to reach M20 J3 (where the M26 meets the M20)

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