A significant pile-up involving approximately 30 vehicles, including cars and lorries, forced the closure of the M20 motorway in both directions in Kent on Saturday evening. The collision occurred around 6:40 p.m. between junction eight for Hollingbourne and junction nine for Ashford on the London-bound carriageway.
Two individuals suffered serious injuries. One was transported to a London hospital, while the other received local medical treatment. In total, 11 people were treated for injuries that were not considered life-threatening. Emergency services, including police, paramedics, and firefighters, responded to the scene.
Authorities believe the crash was caused by a combination of heavy fog and smoke from a fireworks display. Leeds Castle, located nearby, had a fireworks event scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on the same evening.
A spokesperson for Kent Police stated that officers were attending the incident and confirmed the road closures, which were expected to remain in place overnight. Motorists were advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes. Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dash cam footage to contact them, referencing incident number 07-1245.