UPDATE: Early indications are that the coach is carrying students from abroad – 57 passengers in total. Newport City Council are setting up a rest centre to cater for them. The driver of the bus has been taken by air ambulance to Morriston hospital, the passenger on the bus who was injured has also been taken to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff.
Ten other passengers from the bus have gone to the Royal Gwent Hospital described as walking wounded – eight students and two adults.
The motorway currently remains closed in both directions at this time between junction 24 and 28 to allow critical investigation work to take place.
Gwent police received a call to a serious road traffic collision on the M4 between junction 25 and 26 eastbound (Newport) involving a lorry, bus and a number of cars this morning just before 9.30am.
At the moment they have two reported casualties, the driver of the bus and a passenger who was on the bus.
The motorway has been closed in both directions between junction 24 and 28 so that the Air Ambulance can land and diversions are in place.
Officers are at the scene, together with the fire service and ambulance service.
Chief Inspector Paul Evans said:
“We appreciate the closure is causing problems for motorists however the decision to do so is never taken lightly and we fully recognise the impact this has on motorists as well as the communities affected by diversions.”
“We need to ensure we investigate every such collision thoroughly gathering all evidence possible and also ensuring the safety of everyone involved as well as other motorists who will be using this road once it’s reopened.”
“We are grateful for the understanding and patience shown by drivers and their passengers today.”
“Motorists are advised of possible delays and are advised to avoid the area if possible.”
