Ten-year-old boy dies from head injuries in school coach crash

In the United Kingdom, specifically near Minehead in Somerset, a tragic incident occurred on July 17, when a coach carrying students from Minehead Middle School crashed while returning from a trip to Exmoor Zoo. The vehicle, which held approximately 60 to 70 pupils and staff, left the A396 road at Cutcombe Hill, subsequently sliding down a 20-foot slope. This incident took place at around 3:15 PM. Emergency responders, including an off-duty firefighter who witnessed the event, were able to start assisting passengers promptly. The inquest into the unfortunate death of Oliver Price, a 10-year-old boy who was among those on the coach, revealed that he suffered fatal head injuries during the accident. His death was confirmed by paramedics at the scene shortly after the crash. Despite wearing his seatbelt at the time of the incident, Oliver could not be saved, marking a devastating loss for his family and community, especially with the school term nearing its end. The crash resulted in multiple injuries, with several children and adults requiring hospitalization. Initial reports confirmed that while many passengers were discharged shortly after the incident, two children and three adults remained hospitalized. This incident raised concerns regarding the safety of school transport, emphasizing the need for rigorous standards in the transportation of minors. The inquest, which is set to continue on January 14, 2026, aims to gather evidence from witnesses, including adults on the coach and collision investigators, to understand the chain of events leading to the crash. Investigators are also conducting a detailed examination of the recovered coach, seeking to pinpoint the specific factors that contributed to this tragic accident. The outcome of these investigations is anticipated to provide insight and possibly improve safety protocols in the future.