A stretch of the M5 in Bristol was closed for most of today after a tipper truck collided with an overhead gantry. The crash took place between Cribbs Causeway and Avonmouth at around 8.20am this morning (March 2).
Emergency services rushed to the scene and closed the motorway in both directions between junction 17 and junction 19 for the M49. Drivers were urged to 'plan ahead' as a diversion was put in place for them to avoid the closure.
Pictures show the astonishing scene as the lorry stood wedged between the gantry and the motorway surface. Debris can also be seen spread across the road.
READ MORE: M4 crash: Eastbound carriageway to remain closed for 'several hours' as trapped traffic turned around
A noise reportedly rang out "like an explosion" as the lorry collided with the gantry. A witness told Bristol Live that he heard the crash before he saw it.
Brad Hardwidge said: "I heard it from the other end of our site, it sounded like a distant explosion. It's adjacent to our off-road buggy tracks at Max Events."
The M5 eventually reopened fully at around 10.30pm this evening. It has been confirmed that no one was injured in the crash.
A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said earlier: "We were called to the M5 at around 8.20am today (Thursday 2 March) following reports of a tipper truck colliding with an overhead gantry on the southbound carriageway between junctions 17 (Cribbs Causeway) and 18 (Avonmouth).
"The motorway is currently closed in both directions. There have been no reported injuries."
Police have also launched a public appeal for information following the crash. They are keen to hear from anyone who saw the lorry driving before the collision took place.
Avon and Somerset Police said in an appeal: "We understand the lorry joined the M5 at junction 17 and are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the collision or the vehicle in the moments leading up to the incident. Dashcam footage from drivers in the area and showing the lorry would also be gratefully received."
The M5 reopened in full at 10.30pm on Thursday.
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