Three killed following a crash between five vehicles

A third person remains in serious condition after the incident on the M5 southbound through Gloucestershire

The congestion caused by the tragic crash

Two people have died in a late-night motorway smash between five vehicles.

A third person remains in serious condition after the incident on the M5 southbound through Gloucestershire at around 1am today.

Police shut down the southbound stretch of the motorway between junction 8 and junction 9 to allow accident investigators onto the carriageway.

A statement from Gloucestershire Police said: "The M5 is currently closed between J8 and J9 southbound, whilst officers deal with a multiple fatal collision.

"The incident happened at 1.05am today involving at least four vehicles.

Google

The M5 southbound is severely congested after the 1am crash

"Paramedics attended the scene, but sadly two people were pronounced deceased.

"Officers are advising motorists to avoid the area whilst investigations are carried out. Further information will be released in due course."

Two of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene and one was rushed to hospital but sadly died.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: "Upon arrival, the emergency services found a car which had been involved in a serious collision with four men inside.

"Sadly, nothing could be done to save two men and they were confirmed dead on scene.

"A third man was in a critical condition and received advanced trauma care by ambulance staff and the trauma doctor at the roadside before being alerted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

"Sadly, the man was later confirmed dead at hospital. A fourth man was given trauma care for back and leg injuries before being taken to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital.

"Four other patients from other vehicles involved in the collision were assessed and treated by South Western Ambulance Service colleagues.

"Despite the distressing nature of the incident, the two ambulance services together with police and fire colleagues worked as a team to provide excellent patient care on scene.

"The motorway remains closed and motorists are advised to seek alternative routes."