Lorry driver arrested for using cannabis after crash on M1 between Milton Keynes and Northampton

A lorry driver has been arrested following a collision on the M1 that caused a fire and explosion during the night
By Sally Murrer
Published 20th Apr 2020, 12:03 BST
Updated 20th Apr 2020, 12:04 BST
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Two lorries collided and one caught fire, closing the M1 for around four hours overnight between Northampton and Milton Keynes in the early hours of this morning.

Many residents in Newport Pagnell and surrounding areas were woken by a loud bang about 1.30am.

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They then saw plumes of smoke coming from the direction of the M1, between junction 14 and junction 15.

There was an explosion followed by a fireThere was an explosion followed by a fire
There was an explosion followed by a fire

The motorway was closed for around four hours as firefighters used hose reels and breathing apparatus to battle the blaze.

Nobody was trapped but one driver was injured and taken to hospital.

Traffic was diverted from junction 15 via the A508 through Roade and the A5 to Milton Keynes while recovery and investigation work took place.

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Earlier this morning officer from Thames Valley Police roads policing department tweeted a dramatic photo of the blaze, saying: "The results of driving after using cannabis on M1. One driver very lucky to be alive. Arrested after positive drug wipe. Quick way to lose your job, licence and possibly life."