A motorist is set to face court proceedings after being accused of disregarding road closures and removing traffic cones during a police response to a fatal collision on the M26 motorway.

The incident unfolded on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, when officers from Kent Police closed off the M26 motorway, along with a slip road at junction 3 of the M20. These closures were implemented as emergency services attended to a collision involving a van and a lorry on the M26, tragically resulting in the loss of a man’s life.

Allegations suggest that at approximately 1:25 pm, the driver of a Volvo XC70, identified as John Cosgrove, ignored the red ‘X’ symbols displayed on road signs and proceeded to manoeuvre around and relocate traffic cones. Subsequently, Cosgrove purportedly proceeded to drive down the closed M26, disregarding the safety measures in place. Police intervened by intercepting the vehicle, which was travelling against oncoming traffic, redirecting it away from the restricted area.

Cosgrove, a 43-year-old resident of Chertsey Lane, Staines-upon-Thames, Surrey, was promptly arrested and taken into custody. Following further investigation, he has been charged with dangerous driving and driving without insurance.

He has been granted bail and is scheduled to appear at Medway Magistrates’ Court on April 11, 2024, where he will face these charges.

The alleged actions of Cosgrove pose a serious risk not only to himself but also to the safety of other road users and emergency responders. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to road closures and traffic management measures put in place during emergency situations.

Police continue to urge motorists to exercise caution and comply with all directives issued by emergency services, particularly in circumstances where lives are at stake.

John Cosgrove faces charges of dangerous driving and driving without insurance after allegedly ignoring road closures during a police response to a fatal collision on the M26.