Gatwick Crash Today: Highways Worker Dies Following M23 Collision Near Gatwick Airport
A tragic incident on the M23 near Gatwick Airport has left a National Highways worker dead and prompted a major police investigation. Emergency services responded to the scene in the early hours of Wednesday, July 8, 2026, after reports of a serious collision involving a van and a highways worker on the southbound carriageway near Junction 9, the main turn-off for Gatwick Airport.
The fatal crash caused significant disruption on one of the busiest routes serving the airport, leading to lengthy closures and severe traffic delays for motorists across the region.
Emergency Services Rush to Scene of Fatal M23 Crash
According to Sussex Police, officers were called to the M23 southbound shortly before 1 a.m. following reports that a highways worker had been struck by a van while carrying out duties on the motorway.
Police officers, paramedics, and National Highways teams attended the scene immediately. Despite emergency efforts, the 65-year-old worker was pronounced dead at the scene.
The southbound section of the motorway remained closed for several hours while collision investigators conducted a thorough examination of the area and gathered evidence.
Driver Arrested Following Fatal Collision
Sussex Police confirmed that a 38-year-old man from Croydon was arrested on suspicion of:
- Causing death by dangerous driving
- Drink-driving
The suspect remains in police custody as detectives continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased worker pending notification of next of kin.
Investigation Into Gatwick Crash Continues
Specialist collision investigators are carrying out a comprehensive inquiry to establish precisely how the fatal incident occurred.
Investigators are currently:
- Examining forensic evidence from the motorway
- Reviewing CCTV and dashcam footage
- Interviewing witnesses
- Reconstructing the events leading up to the collision
- Determining whether any additional offences may have been committed
Police have appealed to anyone who witnessed the collision or who may have been travelling on the M23 around the time of the incident to come forward with information.
Major Traffic Disruption Near Gatwick Airport
The fatal collision caused substantial travel disruption across the region.
Motorists experienced:
- Closure of the M23 southbound between Junctions 8 and 10
- Heavy congestion and long delays
- Diversions affecting airport traffic
- Increased emergency vehicle activity
- Extended journey times for passengers travelling to Gatwick Airport
National Highways advised drivers to plan ahead and allow extra time for journeys while emergency operations and investigative work were underway.
Safety Concerns for Road Workers
The incident has once again highlighted the dangers faced by highways workers who routinely operate in high-speed traffic environments.
National Highways employees perform essential maintenance and safety operations on Britain’s motorways, often during overnight hours when traffic conditions can still pose significant risks.
Road safety advocates continue urging motorists to remain alert, obey speed restrictions, and exercise caution when approaching roadworks and maintenance crews.
Community Mourns Loss of Dedicated Highways Worker
The death of the National Highways worker has prompted condolences from colleagues and members of the public. Tributes are expected to follow as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available.
Authorities have emphasized that witness statements and dashcam footage could prove critical in determining the exact circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Conclusion
The Gatwick crash today has resulted in the heartbreaking death of a National Highways worker after a van collision on the M23 near Gatwick Airport. A 38-year-old driver has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and drink-driving, while Sussex Police continue an extensive investigation into one of the region’s most serious motorway incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened on the M23 near Gatwick Airport today?
A National Highways worker was fatally struck by a van on the M23 southbound near Junction 9, the Gatwick Airport turn-off.
Who died in the Gatwick crash?
The victim was a 65-year-old National Highways worker who was carrying out duties on the motorway.
Has anyone been arrested?
Yes. Sussex Police arrested a 38-year-old man from Croydon on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and drink-driving.
Why was the M23 closed?
The motorway was closed to allow emergency services to respond and for collision investigators to examine the scene.
Are police seeking witnesses?
Yes. Sussex Police are asking anyone who witnessed the collision or has dashcam footage from the M23 around the time of the crash to contact investigators.