M4 Motorway Shut Down After Horse Goes Loose
A major incident unfolded on the M4 motorway this morning after a horse was reported loose on the carriageway, leading to a full closure and significant travel chaos for commuters.
The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, November 13, 2025, prompted a swift response from authorities. National Highways and Thames Valley Police made the decision to close the motorway in both directions between Junction 12 and Junction 13 due to what was described as a "significant safety risk" posed by the animal.
Severe Traffic Disruption for Commuters
In the aftermath of the closure, heavy congestion quickly built up, affecting one of the country's busiest commuter routes. Drivers faced long delays with traffic backing up from Junction 11 for Reading all the way to Junction 14 for Newbury.
National Highways released an official statement confirming the details. It read: "The M4 is closed in both directions between J12 and J13. This is due to a horse which is loose on the motorway causing a significant safety risk. National Highways traffic officers are assisting Thames Valley Police to resolve the incident."
Ongoing Efforts to Resolve the Situation
Specialist traffic officers from National Highways are currently on the scene, working alongside police to safely manage the situation and secure the horse. The primary goal is to resolve the incident as quickly and safely as possible to minimise the disruption for thousands of motorists.
Commuters have been advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes while the operation is ongoing. There is no current estimate for when the motorway will fully reopen to traffic.
