Fatal collision on key stretch of the A39
A motorcyclist in his forties has died following a single-vehicle crash on the A39 in Somerset. The incident happened shortly before 1pm on Saturday, 18 July, on the section of road between Nether Stowey and Cannington, close to the Cottage Inn at Keenthorne.
Avon and Somerset Police confirmed the rider was pronounced dead at the scene despite attempts by the emergency services to save him. His next of kin have been told and will receive support from specialist officers. The road, which was closed while collision investigators worked at the location and the motorcycle was recovered, reopened later the same day.
"Sadly, despite the best efforts of the emergency services, the rider of a motorcycle, a man in his forties, died at the scene. His next of kin are aware and will be offered support."
Officers carried out detailed enquiries at the scene before allowing traffic to resume. No further details about the rider have been released at this time.
What we know so far
- Time and date: Just before 1pm, Saturday 18 July.
- Location: A39 between Nether Stowey and Cannington, near the Cottage Inn at Keenthorne.
- Vehicles involved: Single motorcycle.
- Outcome: Rider, a man in his forties, died at the scene; next of kin informed.
- Road status: A39 reopened later on Saturday following scene examination and vehicle recovery.
Impact for local road users
The closure of this stretch of the A39 caused disruption on Saturday while investigators worked at the site. With the carriageway now fully open, drivers can use the route again, though police presence in the area may remain while follow-up enquiries are completed. Motorists are advised to proceed with care near Keenthorne, especially where traffic conditions vary or weather reduces visibility.
The incident is a sobering reminder of the vulnerability of those on two wheels and the complexity of collision investigations following serious crashes. While the force has not issued an appeal linked to this report, witnesses to events around the stated time often provide crucial context to investigators reviewing the sequence of events and any factors that may have contributed.
Timeline and location
| Event | Detail |
|---|---|
| Reported time | Just before 1pm, Sat 18 July |
| Location | A39 between Nether Stowey and Cannington (near Cottage Inn, Keenthorne) |
| Road status | Reopened later the same day after examination and recovery |
Further updates from Avon and Somerset Police will be reported as they are released. Our thoughts are with the rider’s family and friends at this difficult time.
