Woman Killed, Man Seriously Injured in Early Morning M23 Collision

A 23-year-old woman died and a man was seriously injured following a single-vehicle crash on the M23 northbound carriageway in West Sussex, England, early Thursday morning. The incident took place just before 5 a.m. between junctions nine and 10.

According to Sussex Police, the car left the main carriageway during the crash. The driver, a 21-year-old man from London, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving. Police confirmed that a 23-year-old man who was also a passenger in the vehicle is currently being treated in hospital for serious injuries.

The northbound side of the M23 was shut down while officers conducted their investigation and worked to recover the vehicle. Police said the closure would remain in effect until it is safe to reopen. The collision led to significant traffic disruptions, with queues exceeding four miles and delays of more than an hour reported. National Highways established a diversion, instructing motorists to exit the M23 at junction 10 and take the A264 eastbound as an alternative route.

Inspector Matt Wightwick described the crash as a "tragic incident" and confirmed a full investigation is underway. The family of the deceased woman has been informed. Updates on the reopening of the motorway are expected as soon as recovery operations are complete and police investigations conclude.