Following a tragic incident on the M23, a driver has been taken into custody after a fatal crash that claimed the life of a 23-year-old woman and caused serious injuries to a 23-year-old man.
The collision, involving a single vehicle, took place on the M23 northbound stretch between junctions 10 and nine in West Sussex, near Gatwick Airport, early on Thursday morning. According to Sussex Police, the car veered off the main road, hitting the central reservation and a tree.
The deceased victim, a 23-year-old woman from London, was a passenger in the vehicle. Her family has been notified of the heartbreaking loss. Another passenger, a 23-year-old man from London, sustained severe injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment in a hospital.
The driver, a 21-year-old man also from London, was apprehended on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving. He is currently under police custody as investigations continue.
Inspector Matt Wightwick of Sussex Police expressed deep sorrow over the tragic event, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the crash and offering support to the victims and their families during this challenging time.
As investigations persist, the northbound carriageway on the M23 remains closed for vehicle recovery and inquiries. Police are seeking witnesses and urging anyone with dashcam footage to contact them via email.
Emergency services, including the West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, responded to the scene. The fire service confirmed the road closure and advised motorists to avoid the area, with alternative routes recommended for those heading to Gatwick Airport.
Although the northbound carriageway was temporarily shut between junctions 10 and nine, it has now been reopened, with traffic management assistance provided by National Highways officers. Drivers were directed to follow a diversion route via the A264 eastbound to navigate around the incident site.
