AS investigations into the cause of a tragic bus crash near Minehead continue, 10-year-old Oliver Price has been identified as the young person who died.

Police and crash experts are continuing to investigate the incident, which saw a coach transporting Minehead Middle School pupils leave the A396 Cutcombe Hill at just before 3pm on July 17.

“Formal identification has now been completed and we can confirm the victim was Oliver Price,” an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said.

“Our thoughts are with his parents and family who have been updated and continue to be supported by a specially-trained officer.”

Two children and one adult are still in hospital in Bristol after the crash, while two adults are in hospital in Somerset, they said, with a number of children discharged over the weekend.

“Officers from our Serious Collision Investigation Team have been carrying out thorough enquiries to understand the full circumstances of the collision,” the spokesperson went on.

The coach was bringing pupils and staff home from a trip to Exmoor Zoo when the crash occurred, with emergency services soon declaring a major incident amid a huge response.

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“Despite their efforts, Oliver sadly died at the scene,” the police spokesperson added. “A family liaison officer will continue to keep his parents updated as our investigation progresses.

“The coach was recovered on Saturday and will now be subject to a detailed examination over the coming days by experts, as part of our usual investigative enquiries.

“Officers have also been taking statements from a number of adults who were either on the coach or were travelling in the area at the time as part of their work to establish the full circumstances of the collision.

“The examination of the scene has been completed, however the road remains closed while a detailed safety inspection is carried out by Somerset Council.

“Neighbourhood officers will be present outside the school over the coming days and anyone with any concerns is welcome to speak to them.”

Chief Superintendent Mark Edgington said: “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 into the collision is now well underway with officers working tirelessly to find out what caused it. This work is likely to take some time and we’re asking for patience while these enquiries take place.

“Over the last few days we have been working closely with our partner agencies and the school to ensure support is in place for anyone who might need it.

“We are extremely grateful for all the support that’s been received locally. This clearly shows how special and close-knit this community is.

“I would like to also thank all the emergency services and voluntary groups who responded for their support as well as everyone in our hospitals who continue to help those who were injured.”

Anyone who saw the crash, or has information they think could help the investigation, should call 101, giving the reference number 5225201782.