A Warwickshire father has been remembered as the 'best daddy' after losing his life in a motorway collision. Joshua 'Josh' Bruton, 30, died at the scene of a two-vehicle crash on the M5 in Gloucestershire at around 12:20pm on Wednesday, May 6.
Family Tributes
Heartbroken loved ones have described Josh as an 'amazing' person and a 'gentle giant'. In a statement, his family said: 'We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved Joshua Bruton, who was tragically taken from us following a motorway accident. Josh was truly the most amazing partner, dad, son, brother, uncle, grandson, nephew, and friend anyone could wish for. Known to many as a 'gentle giant', he was a man defined by his immense kindness.'
They added: 'He possessed a naturally positive aura that could brighten any room, and he had a rare ability to provide instant comfort to those he cared about. He truly went above and beyond for his loved ones, always putting their needs before his own. He was someone who worked incredibly hard, putting his absolute all into everything he did. Whether it was his professional life or his role within our family, his dedication and drive were unmatched.'
Above all, they said, 'he was the best daddy to his two-year-old son, Caden. His little boy was his world, and the bond they shared was truly special. Life is going to be incredibly hard without him. The void he leaves behind is immeasurable, but we take comfort in the many hearts he touched and the kindness he spread through and through. He will be deeply missed by his entire family and his many friends, but his legacy of love and strength will live on in his son forever.'
Fundraising Appeal
A fundraising page set up by family member Tilly Steer aims to provide financial support for Josh's partner, Chloe, and their two-year-old son, Caden. On the page, she wrote: 'Wednesday 6th May, our family lost Josh in a tragic fatal collision on the M5, which left the motorway closed for many hours. While many people were understandably inconvenienced by the closure, our family's lives changed forever. The traffic eventually moved on, journeys continued, and people got home, but Josh never did, and never will.'
She described Josh as a remarkable father with an enormous heart, noting that the couple had no insurance or financial protection in place, adding 'you never truly believe something like this could happen to you.' The fundraiser aims to help with funeral costs and ease financial pressures, providing stability as they navigate this unimaginable loss. As of the latest update, around £9,500 has been raised.
Police Appeal
Officers are continuing enquiries into the incident and are appealing for witnesses. Emergency services attended the scene involving a grey Luton van and a Volkswagen Transporter. The van left the northbound carriageway near junction 9 for Tewkesbury, and Josh tragically died at the scene.
