Hearts fans coach collision ‘was like a bomb’

By DAVID MCCANN
Published on 01/09/2012 12:00

THE HORROR smash that wrote off a Hearts supporters’ bus travelling back from Anfield was like a “bomb going off”, it has been claimed.

Six fans were injured in the motorway collision that saw a lorry slam into the back of the bus at around 4am yesterday, destroying the rear of the vehicle.

It is understood most of the casualties have now been released from hospital, although the worst-hit fan, Steven Motion, 33, remains in Wishaw General Hospital with suspected neck and spinal injuries.

Supporters had been in high spirits after watching the Jambos earn a creditable draw against Liverpool in the Europa League play-off.

Today, Mr Motion’s brother, Paul, 35, told how passengers were lucky to survive the M8 crash, which forced police to close a lane to clear the debris.

“Steven said it was like an explosion, like a bomb had gone off,” he said. “The coach nearly careered into the barrier at the side of the motorway but the driver managed to keep control.”

“They were about ten minutes from home when the lorry crashed into the back of them. My understanding is that the bus had been travelling at around 45mph and seemed to be going slower than normal.

“The majority of 
passengers were sleeping and all of a sudden a truck hammered into them.”

Paul said supporters fled the crippled coach fearing it would be hit by traffic following on the motorway.

“Two people were stuck in the back of the bus near to where the toilet was,” he said. “One was trapped between chairs while another had suffered a nasty gash to his leg.

“Steven was with his wife who was also taken to hospital with suspected damage to her ribs. He was walking and talking at the time the ambulance came, but when he was checked over they realised there was something up with him.”

He added: “It could have been far, far worse and they were very lucky. There has been a lot of people saying that it was like God was looking down on them.”

Following the crash, fans took to the Jambos Kickback forum to tell of the drama.

One supporter wrote: “That’s me finally just got home. Back’s a bit sore and the legs are still freezing.

“Thankfully nobody had been in the toilet at the time or they probably wouldn’t be alive right now.”

Another wrote: “I’m thankful nobody was killed, truly horrific to be involved in this and seeing many people shocked by this accident.”

A Hearts spokesman said: “Our best wishes go out to the Hearts supporters who were involved.”

It is understood no criminal action has been taken against any of the drivers involved in the incident.