The M1 southbound in Bedfordshire has been shut down after a serious traffic collision and vehicle fire, with authorities warning the closure will likely persist for the majority of Sunday. National Highways reported that the affected stretch lies between junction 14 (Broughton Interchange) and junction 13 (Ridgmont Interchange).
Incident Details
The crash and subsequent fire were reported shortly after 2:35 am on Sunday, June 21, 2026. Emergency services, including Bedfordshire Police, Fire & Rescue, the East of England Ambulance Service, and National Highways, are currently at the scene. Motorway camera footage shows the section completely empty of traffic.
Official Statement
National Highways stated: “The M1 southbound in Bedfordshire is closed between J14 Broughton Interchange (Milton Keynes, Newport Pagnell A509) and J13 Ridgmont Interchange (Bedford A421; Woburn, Ampthill A507) due to a collision and vehicle fire reported shortly after 02:35. Bedfordshire Police, Fire & Rescue, East of England Ambulance Service and National Highways have units in attendance. The closure is expected to remain in place for several further hours for collision investigation work which is being carried out by Bedfordshire Police.”
Impact and Advice
Drivers are advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes. The closure is expected to cause significant delays throughout Sunday as collision investigators work at the scene. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
