Latest: Drivers face long delays on M27 following fatal accident

Drivers heading west into Hampshire are being advised to stay clear of Junction 9 eastbound on the M27 following a fatal accident this morning (Thursday March 26).

The multi-vehicle collision, which involved at least three cars and a lorry, happened just before Junction 9 of the eastbound carriageway at Whiteley, at 9.15am this morning.

A Hampshire Police spokesman said: ‘What we know at this time is a lorry collided with a car, resulting in one fatality.

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“At least three cars and a heavy goods vehicle are believed to be involved. One of the vehicles was reported as being on fire and there is considerable damage to the road surface.”

Among those who were treated after the incident was a 19-month-old baby.

Both carriageways were closed for several hours from junction eight to nine.

The closure of the eastbound carriageway is still expected to last all day.

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Traffic stuck in the closures is being filtered off the motorway.

This has caused problems on the minor roads around the area, though.

Chief Inspector Andy Bottomley, who is from the Roads Policing Unit and is co-ordinating the police response, said: “In any situation like this where someone has tragically died in a collision we have a duty to conduct a thorough forensic examination of the scene.

“The more vehicles involved, the more complex that is, and the more time it will take to complete this vital work.

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“Please be reassured that we have deployed the maximum number of officers to the scene and are working hard with our partner agencies and emergency responders to deal with the immediate aftermath of the collision, complete the investigation at the scene, and ensure the road is safe for you to travel on.

“In the meantime, please avoid the area. We will keep you updated and aim to get the road back to normal as soon as possible. Massive thanks to those of you stuck in the tailbacks for your patience and understanding during what must be a frustrating time.”

Motorists are being warned that it may take some time for the road to be reopened.

Police say the road surface may have been damaged by fire, and repairs may be essential before the road is safe to travel on.

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Those who use this route to commute home are being advised to avoid the area and consider other routes.

Any motorists with medical conditions or urgent issues who are stuck in the queue are being advised to call 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Anyone who witnessed the incident and is yet to speak to police officers is urged to call 101 and quote Operartion Shornmead.