Police have named the 10-year-old boy who died after a school coach crashed in Somerset last week as Oliver Price.
Emergency services were called to a single-vehicle collision on the A396 at Cutcombe Hill, between Wheddon Cross and Timberscombe, at 3pm last Thursday.
A major incident was declared with teams from Avon and Somerset Police, Devon and Somerset Fire & Rescue Service and South Western Ambulance Service all involved at the scene, supported by the National Police Air Service helicopter, as well as Devon Air Ambulance, and Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.
Police said that despite efforts, Oliver died at the scene.
Two children and one adult remain in hospital in Bristol, while two adults are hospitalised in Somerset, while a number of children were discharged over the weekend. Up to 70 people – children and adults travelling to Minehead Middle School – were understood to be on the coach.
Avon and Somerset Police shared their thoughts with Oliver’s parents and family, who have been updated and are being supported by a specially trained officer.
Chief superintendent Mark Edgington said: “Our thoughts are first and foremost with Oliver’s family at what must be an unimaginably difficult time. We will continue to make sure they’re updated.
“Our investigation into the collision is now well underway with officers working tirelessly to find out what caused it. This work is likely to take some time and we’re asking for patience while these enquiries take place.
“Over the last few days we have been working closely with our partner agencies and the school to ensure support is in place for anyone who might need it.
He continued: “We are extremely grateful for all the support that’s been received locally. This clearly shows how special and close-knit this community is.
“I would like to also thank all the emergency services and voluntary groups who responded for their support as well as everyone in our hospitals who continue to help those who were injured.”
The coach was recovered on Saturday and will be subject to a detailed examination over the coming days by experts. Officers have been taking statements from adults that were either on the coach or travelling in the area at the time in order to establish the full circumstances of the collision.
The road remains closed while a detailed safety inspection is carried out by Somerset Council after police completed an examination of the scene.
Neighbourhood officers will be present outside Minehead Middle School over the coming days.
Police asked that anyone who witnessed the collision or who has any information they think could be of relevance to our investigation should call 101, giving the call handler the reference number 5225201782.
