Boy, 10, killed in coach crash back from Somerset zoo trip named by police
The 10-year-old boy who died in a school bus crash in Somerset has been named by police.
Oliver Price, a pupil at Minehead Middle School, tragically died in the crash on Thursday afternoon while returning from a trip to Exmoor Zoo.
A police spokesperson said of the family: ‘They have asked for privacy at this very difficult time and we would urge everyone to respect this.’
Two children and three adults are still in hospital while a number of children were discharged over the weekend.
A major incident was declared and a significant emergency service response began.
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Despite their efforts, Oliver was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene.
An Avon and Somerset family liaison officer will continue to keep the affected parents updated as the investigation progresses.
Chief Superintendent Mark Edgington said: ‘Our thoughts are first and foremost with Oliver’s family at what must be an unimaginably difficult time. We will continue to make sure they’re updated.
‘Our investigation is now well under way with officers working tirelessly to find out what caused it.
‘This work is likely to take some time and we’re asking for patience while these inquiries take place.’
An off-duty firefighter travelling behind the coach was able to start freeing passengers immediately.
The coach was recovered on Saturday and will now be subject to a detailed examination by experts.
‘Officers have also been taking statements from a number of adults who were either on the coach or were travelling in the area at the time as part of their work to establish the full circumstances of the collision,’ a force spokesman said.
‘The examination of the scene has been completed, however, the road remains closed while a detailed safety inspection is carried out by Somerset Council.’
Following the tragedy, a stream of people visited the school, which has pupils aged between nine and 14, to pay respects and leave tributes at the gates after the crash.
Many were visibly upset and were hugging and supporting each other.
Online fundraisers for those affected have raised more than £25,000.
