Girl, 17, killed on M5 after being hit by car

A teenager has been killed in a crash on the M5. The 17-year-old fled from a police vehicle in the moments before the fatal collision.

She was then involved in a crash with another vehicle just after 11pm on Monday, November 12. Paramedics rushed to the scene but could not save the girl.

She was pronounced dead at the scene. Avon and Somerset Police confirmed she was being transported in one of its vehicles shortly before the crash.

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A mandatory referral has been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to recent prior police contact, the force said. Detective Chief Superintendent Rachel Shields said: "Our thoughts are first and foremost with the girl’s family.

"Overnight we have updated her next of kin regarding what has happened and we will ensure they are supported by specially-trained officers at what is an incredibly difficult time following the tragic loss of such a young life." Det Ch Supt Shields added: "We believe it is important that we are as transparent as possible at this early stage about the tragic circumstances.

"A critical incident was declared and our Professional Standards Department notified overnight. A mandatory referral has been made to the IOPC.

"The IOPC has decided to take on the investigation independently, and we welcome the oversight it will give. We recognise this incident has had a significant effect on the devastated officers, plus members of the public, who witnessed what happened, as well as other officers and staff involved in our response.

"We will ensure staff are able to access any welfare support they may benefit from following this tragedy." Officers stopped the vehicle while heading northbound between junction 25 for Taunton and junction 24 for Bridgwater.

The girl left the stationary police vehicle but was then struck by a car on the southbound carriageway. The M5 was shut so an investigation could be launched.