Two dead after three-vehicle horror crash – lorry, car and van burst into flames
TWO people have died following a multi-vehicle crash near Bedford.
Emergency crews were called this morning following reports of a three-vehicle collision on the A421 between the Black Cat Roundabout and the A428. Bedfordshire Police said the incident took place shortly before 8am on the westbound carriageway and involved a van, car and HGV.
The force confirmed the vehicles caught fire and two people were later pronounced dead at the scene.
Bedfordshire Police said a 27-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident.
Specialist officers remain at the scene while an investigation is carried out.
Both sides of the carriageway from the A428 to the Black Cat roundabout will remain shut for the rest of the day.
In a statement, Bedfordshire Police said: “Shortly before 8am a van, car and HGV lorry were involved in a collision travelling westbound between the Black Cat roundabout and the A428.
“The collision caused the vehicles to catch fire and sadly two people were pronounced dead at the scene.
“Next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.
“This is a complex recovery while specialist officers work with colleagues from other emergency services to establish the circumstances, so both the westbound and eastbound carriageways between the A428 and the Black Cat roundabout will remain closed today.”
Crews from Bedfordshire Fire Control, two ambulances and an air ambulance also attended the scene.
Sergeant David Burstow, leading the investigation, has urged anyone with any information to come forward.
He said: “Our thoughts are with the families of those involved at this time.
“We are working hard to establish the circumstances of the collision and ask that if you were travelling either westbound or eastbound this morning and have dashcam footage please come forward.”
Anyone with information is urged to call 101 or contact Bedfordshire Police via the force’s website, quoting Operation Mabel.
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Heavy traffic remains in the area and National Highways has urged motorists in both directions on the A421 to follow the diversion.
Drivers travelling on the westbound stretch should follow the A1 southbound from the Black Cat Roundabout.
Motorists travelling eastbound should exit the A421 at the Cardington Cross junction and take the A603.