A devastating coach crash in Somerset has left one child dead and 21 others injured, with a heroic off-duty firefighter credited with saving lives in the immediate aftermath.
The tragic incident occurred when a school coach overturned near Somerset, trapping multiple children inside the wreckage. Among the first on the scene was an off-duty firefighter who happened to be passing by.
Quick Thinking Saves Lives
The firefighter, whose identity has not been released, immediately sprang into action, using his professional training to free trapped children from the overturned vehicle. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as emergency services rushed to the location.
Emergency Response
Ambulance crews and police responded swiftly to the accident, with air ambulances deployed to transport the most seriously injured. Local hospitals were placed on high alert as casualties arrived throughout the afternoon.
A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that one child had tragically died at the scene, while 21 others sustained injuries ranging from minor to life-threatening.
Community in Shock
The local community has been left reeling by the tragedy, with tributes pouring in for the young victim. The school involved has offered counseling to students and staff affected by the traumatic event.
Road safety campaigners have called for an urgent review of coach safety measures following the accident, which comes amid growing concerns about pupil transportation standards.
An investigation into the cause of the crash is underway, with police appealing for any witnesses to come forward.
