UPDATE: Doctors describe school pupil’s coach crash injury as ‘potentially life-changing’
Police have issued an update on the Frome coach crash as an investigation is launched.
Dozens of emergency services personnel, including two air ambulances, rushed to the scene of the incident in B3090 Oldford Hill at around 3.30pm yesterday (Monday 28 November).
Numerous passengers of the coach, travelling to Frome College, sustained minor injuries – with several taken to hospital for further treatment. Luckily, nobody was significantly hurt.
Avon and Somerset Police has written to those involved to confirm that the driver of the vehicle tested negative for drugs and alcohol – a test that is standard procedure after a crash.
The letter, which was shared publicly, reads: “Yesterday’s collision was a serious incident, which must have been frightening for all involved.
“I would like to pay tribute to the students, parents/carers and staff for the courage they showed in very distressing circumstances.
“As you all know, all relevant emergency services attended the scene. Our first priority was to account for everyone on the coach and to provide medical aid to those who needed it.
“Unforunately several students were taken to hospital for further assessment and treatment. Our thoughts are with them, and we wish them a speedy recovery.
“An investigation has commenced into the circumstances during the collision. We aim to establish how and why the coach left the carriageway.
“The company which owns the coach, and the driver are assisting us with our enquiries.
“As is standard procedure, the driver was tested for the presence of alcohol and drug use at the scene, and this was negative. He will be interviewed at a later date.
“The coach itself will be examined by a police vehicle examiner. It was fitted with a tachograph and this too will be examined.”
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