MANSLAUGHTER charges have been dropped in connection with a fatal accident on the M5, which claimed the lives of former Barry couple Pamela and Tony Adams.
The Crown Prosecution Service has decided not to go ahead with the manslaughter charges against Geoffrey Counsell, who organised a nearby firework display on the night. He will now face a separate charge under the Health and Safety Act.
The accident in November 2011, which claimed seven lives and left 51 people injured, was described as the worst road traffic accident in Britain in more than 20 years.
Senior Investigation officer, Detective Superintendent Mike Courtiour said: "The collision on the M5 in November 2011 was one of the worst in living memory. "We launched a comprehensive investigation immediately after to establish the full circumstances which led to the collision.
"Our investigation was meticulous and complex. "We took hundreds of witness statements, examined 34 vehicles and consulted several experts, including meteorologists, pyrotechnic and forensic specialists.
"Based on this evidence the Crown Prosecution Service took a decision to charge. However, following further consideration in recent weeks, they have decided to discontinue the manslaughter charges."
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