Tragedy Strikes A30: Young Boy Dies, Another Critical After Major Collision
A devastating multi-vehicle collision on Cornwall’s A30 has claimed the life of an eight-year-old boy, while another child remains in a critical condition. Emergency services were scrambled to the scene on Friday morning following reports of a serious crash on the westbound carriageway near Connor Downs, just before 11 am.
Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed the tragic passing of the eight-year-old boy at the scene. A five-year-old boy, who was also involved in the incident, has been airlifted to Bristol Children’s Hospital, where he is currently in a critical condition.
Multiple Casualties and Ongoing Investigation
The collision involved several vehicles, with initial reports indicating a significant impact. Beyond the two young boys, two women were also transported to hospital. A woman in her 70s sustained serious injuries and is receiving treatment at Derriford Hospital. Another woman, in her 40s, was treated for injuries and has since been discharged. Authorities have confirmed that the two women and the two children were travelling together in the same vehicle. Specially trained officers are providing support to the families of those affected by this terrible event.
A man in his 60s has been arrested in connection with the incident. He was taken into custody on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving. The man was treated for minor injuries and has since been released under investigation as enquiries continue.
Police Appeal for Witnesses and Dash-Cam Footage
Detective Inspector Andy Heath, from the Devon and Cornwall Police Serious Collisions Investigation Team, has issued a statement expressing condolences to those affected. “Our thoughts are with those who have been affected by this incident,” he said. “Specialists from the Roads Policing Team and Serious Collisions Investigation Team have continued enquiries through the weekend, and the investigation team will be pursuing several lines of enquiry over the coming weeks.”
DI Heath urged the public to refrain from speculation regarding the cause of the collision. “It is not possible to provide detail of the cause of the collision, and I would ask the public not to speculate,” he stated. “Further information will be made available in due course. Our priority at this time is to support those that have been directly affected by this tragic incident and to secure the evidence required for a thorough investigation.”
Police are now making a public appeal for any witnesses to the collision or individuals who may have been in the vicinity with dash-cam footage that could assist the investigation.
How to Assist the Investigation
Anyone who:
- Witnessed the collision.
- Was in the A30 area near Connor Downs around 11 am on Friday.
- Has dash-cam footage from their vehicle that may be relevant.
is urged to come forward. To provide information, please contact Devon and Cornwall Police by:
- Calling 101.
- Visiting the Devon and Cornwall Police website.
When making contact, please quote the reference number: 50260136471. The ongoing investigation aims to establish the full circumstances surrounding this deeply unfortunate event.
