Oliver Price Dies in School Coach Crash: Inquest Opens in Somerset

A 10-year-old schoolboy, Oliver Price, tragically lost his life when a school coach carrying students from Minehead Middle School overturned in Somerset on July 17. An inquest held in Wells revealed that Oliver died from a head injury and was discovered still strapped into his seat.

Details Shared at Inquest

Vanessa McKinlay, Assistant Coroner for Somerset, opened the inquest by reading a statement from Coroner’s Investigator Ben Batley. It was confirmed that Oliver was found deceased at the scene by paramedics at 5 p.m. and identified by his father, Matthew.
“The coach came off the road and into a steep wooded area. Oliver was found seated with his seatbelt on. His provisional cause of death was a head injury.”

Scene of the Crash

The accident occurred at around 3:15 p.m. between Wheddon Cross and Timberscombe. The 70-seater coach veered off the A396, sliding 20 feet down a steep slope. An off-duty firefighter who was driving behind the bus began rescuing passengers immediately.

Multiple Injuries and Emergency Response

At least 21 other pupils and staff were injured in the crash. The coach was returning Year 5 students from a school trip to Exmoor Zoo. The response involved multiple emergency units, including five helicopters, around 20 ambulances, and local hospitals.

Condolences and Ongoing Investigation

“I’d like to close by offering my condolences to Oliver’s family,” said Ms. McKinlay. The inquest was adjourned until January 14, when key witnesses, including emergency responders and a pathologist, will testify.

Chief Superintendent Mark Edgington stated:
“Our thoughts are first and foremost with Oliver’s family at what must be an unimaginably difficult time. We will continue to make sure they’re updated.”
“Our investigation is now well underway… we’re asking for patience while these enquiries take place.”

Community and Official Reactions

Local MP Rachel Gilmour described the crash as “tragic” and said she was “heartbroken for the parents and the school and the wider family.”
She noted that the road where the crash occurred is “very, very steep, very windy,” making it dangerous for large vehicles.
She praised the emergency services, saying: “We’ve been told up to 20 ambulances went to the scene… just deeply grateful to our emergency services.”

Support and Tribute

Floral tributes were laid outside Minehead Middle School. A teacher shared an emotional message online:
“My amazing students, I couldn’t be prouder of all of you, how incredibly brave you have been… we will get through this together.”
“My deepest condolences to all parents, carers, family and friends involved.”