Three cows killed in crash as lorry overturns

The cattle were trapped on the top deck

17:23, 17 Mar 2026

File image of a fire engine(Image: Axminster Fire Station )

The driver of an Arctic lorry has been reported to court after three cattle were killed when a lorry overturned.

Emergency services were called to the scene on Andrewhayes Lane, Dalwood, after a lorry carrying cows overturned near the A35.

The bottom deck of cattle were free and clear and fire crews cut away the hedge to release the cattle trapped on the top deck of the lorry.

The driver suffered minor injuries and was checked over by the ambulance service at the time of the crash, which was around 11.15am on Monday, March 16.

Devon and Cornwall Police stated that the driver was reported to court for driving without due care and attention.

Three cattle were killed as a result, police confirmed. A vet checked on the welfare of the other cattle.

The A35 was closed for just over two hours and was reopened at 1.25pm. Andrewhayes Lane was closed until the lorry was recovered at around 6.15pm.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: "We were called to a report of an overturned livestock lorry on Andrewhayes Lane, Dalwood, near the A35 at around 11.15am on Monday 16 March."

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue[1] Service said: "On arrival crews confirmed the bottom deck of cattle to be free and clear of the lorry with farmers working to free the top deck.

Crews assisted using a reciprocating saw to cut away the hedge to release the remaining cattle."

References

1. ^ Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue (www.devonlive.com)