The M5 motorway in Devon was closed in both directions between junctions 30 and 31 on Monday morning due to a police-led welfare incident. The closure, which began shortly before 5am, caused significant disruption for early morning commuters.
Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that a female was located on the wrong side of the railings on a bridge over the M5. Police negotiators attended the scene, and the individual was safely brought back to a secure location and taken into the care of emergency services.
National Highways reported that the motorway has since reopened. During the closure, diversions were in place, and congestion built up on the A379 between Kennford and Sandygate Roundabout as traffic sought alternative routes.
Police were called at approximately 3.50am to reports of a concern for welfare in Clyst St Mary, Exeter. The incident led to a full closure of the M5, with no estimated time for reopening initially given. Motorists were advised to avoid the area and find alternative routes.
