Authorities confirmed that the closure will remain in place for an extended period while inquiries are conducted.

National Highways reported that traffic caught in the closure was being turned around, but southbound traffic would be redirected later.

Travel Somerset warned of significant traffic congestion due to the road closure, with expectations that the motorway might not reopen until lunchtime on November 12, 2024.

Motorists are facing significant delays, with reports of 90-minute delays for southbound traffic and 20-minute delays for northbound traffic.

No other individuals were injured in the incident, which led to the closure of southbound lanes between junctions 24 (Bridgwater) and 25 (Taunton).

The police have notified the victim's next of kin and are providing support through a specially-trained officer.

Due to prior police contact with the victim, a mandatory referral has been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

Authorities are seeking witnesses and dashcam footage of the crash, asking the public to reference log number 1170 of November 11 when contacting them.

Diversion routes have been established, with traffic advised to use the A38, which is also experiencing delays.

A tragic incident on the M5 motorway in Somerset resulted in the death of a 17-year-old girl late on November 11, 2024.

The girl was reportedly being transported to custody by police when she exited the vehicle shortly before the collision.

The motorway was reopened in both directions by National Highways shortly after 11 AM on November 12, 2024.