A serene drive on the picturesque North Yorkshire coast turned to tragedy on Tuesday afternoon following a horrific two-vehicle collision on the A171.
The incident, which occurred near the Hawsker roundabout close to the historic fishing town of Whitby, prompted a massive emergency service response. Despite the best efforts of paramedics, four individuals were pronounced dead at the scene.
North Yorkshire Police have confirmed that another person was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries and remains in a critical condition.
Major Emergency Service Response
The force received the initial report of the serious collision at approximately 2:50 pm. Officers from North Yorkshire Police, alongside multiple ambulances and critical care teams from Yorkshire Ambulance Service, were immediately dispatched.
Fire crews were also in attendance, working meticulously to cut one person free from the wreckage of the vehicles involved.
Road Closure and Investigation Launched
The A171 was completely closed in both directions for several hours between the Hawsker and High Hawsker junctions to allow for a comprehensive emergency response and for collision investigators to examine the scene.
Motorists were urged to avoid the area entirely as long delays built up throughout the afternoon and evening. The road has since been reopened.
Police are now appealing for witnesses and anyone with dashcam footage that could aid their investigation into the circumstances that led to this devastating incident.
Sergeant Jack Watson of the North Yorkshire Police Roads Policing Group expressed his condolences, stating: "This is an absolute tragedy, and our thoughts are with the families and friends of those who have lost their lives in this terrible collision."
