M4 Motorway Fully Closed After Discovery of Decedent

Avon and Somerset Police investigate the circumstances surrounding a body found on the M4 near Bristol

The M4 motorway near Bristol was fully closed on Saturday night following the discovery of a body on the carriageway, according to Avon and Somerset Police.

Authorities indicated that the motorway in south Gloucestershire is expected to remain closed in both directions until the early hours of Sunday morning.

The affected section is located between junction 20, near the Almondsbury Interchange, and junction 21, close to Awkley.

Drivers began reporting an object on the road around 6:40 PM on Saturday, prompting police response.

Upon arrival, officers discovered human remains, believed to be that of a man in his 40s.

The police department has initiated inquiries to identify the deceased and notify next of kin, while an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances that led to the individual being on the motorway.

National Highways confirmed that the M4 remains closed westbound between junction 20 and junction 22 at the Prince of Wales Bridge, though the eastbound lanes between junctions 20 and 21 have reopened.

Additionally, the eastbound section of the M48, running between the bridge and junction 21 of the M4, has also been reopened.

Police began releasing traffic on the eastbound lanes of the M4 and M48 around midnight.

In an official alert, National Highways emphasized the complexity of the operation due to the location and volume of traffic, urging motorists not to attempt to turn around until instructed by police or traffic officers.

Avon and Somerset Police have requested that anyone who traveled along that segment of the M4 and may possess relevant information or dashcam footage contact them.