Tragedy struck the M1 last night as a car smashed into a tree, killing both driver and passenger instantly.

Who Were They?

Umar Akbar, a man in his 20s, and a female passenger of a similar age lost their lives in the fatal crash. Their deaths have sparked hundreds of heartfelt tributes online, with Umars passing confirmed on the South Yorkshire Janazah social media page.

Crash Details and Police Appeal

South Yorkshire Police were called to the scene just after 11.30pm on the southbound M1 between Junctions 37 and 36 near Tankersley, Barnsley.

A grey BMW saloon is believed to have veered off the motorway before crashing into a tree.

“We have launched an investigation following the tragic death of a man and a woman in a fatal collision on the M1,” South Yorkshire Police said. “Were appealing for witnesses, footage, and any information to help us understand the circumstances that led to the collision.”

“Emergency services attended, but both occupants were sadly pronounced dead at the scene. Our thoughts are with their families at this difficult time, and family liaison officers are supporting them.”

Police Urge Witnesses to Come Forward

Officers are asking anyone with dashcam footage or information about the crash to get in touch to assist the ongoing investigation.

The tragic collision has left the local community in shock as police work to piece together what happened on that fateful stretch of the M1.