Appeal for witnesses after youths throw stones from bridge onto the M5

Police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage after stones were dropped off a bridge onto the M5 motorway on Monday night (13 January) causing damage to vehicles.

It was reported that two or three youths wearing dark clothing were throwing stones from a bridge onto the northbound carriageway near junction 12 at around 8.25pm.

Officers were deployed but the suspects had already left the scene. It is believed the same youths then returned to the bridge just before 10pm and again threw stones at passing vehicles.

The M5 was shut in both directions at around 10.20pm while the carriageway was cleared of the debris.

Police drones were then deployed to locate the offenders and with support from the dog unit two 15-year-old boys were detained close to the Hunts Grove estate near Hardwicke.

They were arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and have since been released on police bail while enquiries continue.

Two vehicles sustained damage to their windscreens during the incidents and although no-one was injured, the occupants were left shaken by what had happened.

Investigating officers would now like to hear from anyone else whose car may have been damaged during either incident.

They would also like to hear from anyone who witnessed the youths on the bridge or who may have dashcam footage which they believe to be relevant.

Residents of the Hunts Grove estate are asked to report any youths acting suspiciously in the area that evening and to check their doorbell footage.

PC Andy Lawson said: "Throwing stones at passing cars on the motorway is completely reckless and could have had devastating consequences.

"Two vehicles which were travelling at speed had their windscreens smashed and it is incredibly lucky that no-one was seriously injured or worse.

"We're asking for the public's help to investigate those responsible for putting the lives of road users at risk."

Information can be provided to police by calling 101 or by completing the following online form and quoting incident 490 of 13 January: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/contact/af/contact-us/us/a-crime-that-has-already-been-reported/