The sudden loss of Joshua ‘Josh’ Bruton, a devoted father and gentle giant, in a tragic M5 motorway crash has left his family and friends heartbroken. The 30-year-old Warwickshire resident died instantly in a two-vehicle collision near junction 9 in Gloucestershire on Wednesday, May 6, around 12:20 pm.
Josh was described by his loved ones as an extraordinary dad whose kindness and dedication shaped the lives of everyone around him. His family remembers him as “the best daddy,” whose love for his two-year-old son, Caden, was boundless. On that fateful morning, Josh kissed his partner, Chloe, and little Caden goodbye, promising to see them after work—a moment none could have foreseen as his last.
In response to this heartbreaking tragedy, a family member, Tilly Steer, has launched a fundraiser to assist Chloe and Caden during the difficult months ahead. The family was caught unprepared financially, having no insurance or safety net for such an unexpected event. The funds raised aim to help cover funeral expenses and alleviate financial burdens, offering some stability as they cope with their profound loss.
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Tilly writes, “While many were inconvenienced by the motorway closure following the accident, our family’s world was forever changed. The traffic moved on and journeys continued—all except for Josh’s.” She urges those who can to contribute or share the fundraising page to provide support during this unimaginable time.
Josh’s family shared a heartfelt tribute: “Josh was known as a gentle giant, a man of immense kindness and positivity who brought comfort to all he knew. He worked tirelessly in every aspect of his life and always put his family’s needs first. The bond he shared with Caden was truly special. Though the void left by his passing is immeasurable, his legacy of love and strength will live on forever.”
The police continue to investigate the crash and are appealing to anyone who witnessed the collision between a grey Luton van and a Volkswagen Transporter to come forward.
To date, the fundraising effort has raised nearly £9,500, highlighting the outpouring of kindness from the community rallying behind Josh’s family in their time of need.