The child who died in a school bus crash in Somerset has been confirmed as a 10-year-old boy, Avon and Somerset Police said on Friday. He has not yet been named.
Police added that six other children and three adults, including the driver, remain in hospital.
Between 60 and 70 people were on board the bus, which was heading back to Minehead Middle School after a day trip for Year 5 classes to Exmoor Zoo.
The vehicle left the A396 at Cutcombe Hill near Minehead, on Thursday afternoon, sliding down a 20ft slope .
Formal identification has not yet been completed, but specially trained officers are supporting the boy’s next of kin.
Two children were taken to Bristol Royal Hospital for Children by air ambulance following the incident, while four other children and three adults remain in hospital in Somerset, a police spokesperson said.
The crash happened on the A396 at Cutcombe Hill, between Wheddon Cross and Timberscombe, at about 3.15pm on Thursday.
The vehicle left the road, overturned and came to rest about 20ft (six metres) from the roadway, down a steep slope.
An off-duty firefighter travelling behind the coach was able to start freeing passengers immediately.
Recovery of the vehicle and collision investigation are complex, and police expect the road to remain closed for a considerable time.
Minehead Middle School, which caters for pupils aged between nine and 14, and is five days away from the end of term, remained closed on Friday.
On Friday, a stream of people went to the school to pay respects, leaving floral tributes and messages at the gates. Dozens of bouquets, balloons and messages have been left at the school.
Many were visibly upset and could be seen hugging and supporting each other.
Speaking outside the school gates, the Rev Philip Butcher, the vicar of Minehead, said the community was in shock.
“It was absolutely numbing, there are no words to describe what happened yesterday,” he said.
“It’s an absolute tragedy, and one that’s still very much unfolding. We’re just standing firm with the school, with the families at this time, just to be with them in this time as a point of support.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: “There are no adequate words to acknowledge the death of a child. All my thoughts are with their parents, family and friends, and all those affected.”
The driver of the coach is reported to be in a stable condition but has suffered “a number of injuries”.
In a statement, Chief Superintendent Mark Edgington said: “On behalf of the emergency services, I would like to thank the 24 volunteers from Exmoor Search and Rescue who carried out first aid triage at the rest centre and have rope and search skills.
“I also pass on thanks to the staff of the Rest and Be Thankful pub at Wheddon Cross, which opened its doors as the rest centre.
“Of course, we also recognise the efforts of Minehead Middle School, for keeping parents and carers informed and providing support to the school community during what is a difficult and distressing time for them all.”
