Driver Killed In Crash Between Two Ambulances

Colleagues of an emergency service driver killed when his vehicle was in a collision with another ambulance say they are "absolutely devastated" by the tragedy.

The Welsh Ambulance Service NHS Trust (WAS) said the crash involving two ambulances - one an urgent response vehicle and the other a patient transport service - happened on the A499.

Seven teams of paramedics, including two air ambulances, three ambulances by road and two rapid response cars, went to the scene where the driver of the non-emergency vehicle was pronounced dead.

Three people who were travelling in the 999 ambulance are being treated in hospital following the fatal crash in Pwllheli, Gwynedd, shortly before 3pm on Thursday.

WAS head of operations in North Wales, Sonia Thompson, said: "We were all absolutely devastated to hear about this tragic accident, and our thoughts are with everyone involved.

"We're doing everything we can to support our affected colleagues, and are working hard to understand what happened."

Richard Lee, the WAS's director of operations, added: "As an ambulance service we deal with road traffic accidents on a daily basis.

"These are always difficult for our staff to deal with, but even more so when they involve our colleagues."

The WAS said it had been overwhelmed by the "humbling and deeply touching" reaction, adding: "Out of adversity comes strength.

"We are truly stronger together. Thank you."

Fellow emergency services posted their support on social media.

London's Metropolitan Special Constabulary said their thoughts were with all those involved at the WAS as part of the "#999family".

The Northern Ireland College of Paramedics tweeted: "Our thoughts are with our @WelshAmbulance colleagues and their families this evening."

West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "Our deepest sympathies go out to our colleagues in @WelshAmbulance who lost one of their own in a crash today. #RIP."

Jim Hancox, from Midlands Air Ambulance's Strensham base, wrote: "Words can't express the sadness and loss our @WelshAmbulance colleagues will be feeling tonight.

"We stand shoulder to shoulder with you ..."

The Dublin Fire Brigade tweeted: "Thinking of our colleagues in @WelshAmbulance and everyone affected by today's tragic events #999family."