Coach Crash Claims Life of 10-Year-Old Boy Returning from School Trip

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A 10-year-old boy who was killed in a coach crash while returning from a school trip to a zoo died from head injuries, an inquest has heard. Oliver Price was one of the 60-70 pupils and staff from Minehead Middle School who were on a trip to Exmoor Zoo when the vehicle left the A396 at Cutcombe Hill near Minehead and slid down a 20ft slope on July 17. The bus crash, which occurred between Wheddon Cross and Timberscombe at about 3:15 pm, resulted in the deaths of one child and serious injuries to several others.

Key Takeaways:

  • Oliver Price, a 10-year-old student of Minehead Middle School, died from head injuries sustained in a coach crash on July 17.
  • The bus was carrying 60-70 pupils and staff from Minehead Middle School on a trip to Exmoor Zoo.
  • The vehicle left the A396 road at Cutcombe Hill near Minehead and slid down a 20ft slope.
  • A number of children involved in the crash were discharged from hospital over the weekend, while two children and three adults remain in hospital.
  • The coach had its seat belt on when Oliver was found seated inside.
  • An off-duty firefighter traveling behind the coach was able to start freeing passengers immediately.
  • Online fundraisers for those affected have raised more than £25,000.
  • The inquest has been listed to resume on January 14, 2025, with a one-day hearing to involve evidence from witnesses, including the coach driver, and specialist collision investigators.

Statistics:

  • 1 child died in the coach crash.
  • 60-70 pupils and staff were on the bus when it crashed.
  • 2 children and 3 adults remain in hospital after the crash.
  • Over £25,000 has been raised through online fundraisers.
  • The inquest is scheduled to resume on January 14, 2025.

Sources:

  • [1] Somerset Coroner's Court at Wells Town Hall
  • [2] PA Wire
  • [3] Getty Images
  • [4] BBC News
  • [5] Online fundraisers (not specified)