Biker killed in crash with ambulance car

An investigation has been launched after the death of a motorcyclist following a crash with an ambulance car, police said.

The biker, a man in his 30s, died in hospital after the accident in Taunton, Somerset.

He was involved in a collision with a rapid response vehicle travelling in the opposite direction which was attending a 999 report of a cardiac arrest.

The ambulance car had its flashing blue lights and sirens on at the time of the crash on the B3227 from Norton Fitzwarren towards Cotford St Luke shortly after 5.30pm.

Another ambulance, which was also en route to the cardiac arrest incident, stopped shortly after the accident to help.

The biker was taken to Musgrove Park Hospital with serious injuries where he died a few hours later.

South Western Ambulance Service has launched an informal investigation into what happened and the paramedic driving the vehicle has been given time off to recover.

Avon and Somerset Police are appealing for witnesses.

Officers say they would particularly like to hear from a lorry driver who is thought to have been driving along the road around the time of the collision.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police's collision investigation unit on 0845 4567000.