A devastating fire has destroyed seven specially adapted minibuses used by disabled people and school children at the Silk Mills Park and Ride in Taunton, Somerset. The incident, which occurred on Saturday evening, has caused significant disruption to the community, particularly affecting some of its most vulnerable members. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation as authorities work to determine how such a serious event unfolded.
Fire Breaks Out at Silk Mills Park and Ride
Shortly after 7.50 pm on Saturday, emergency services were called to reports of a fire at the Silk Mills Park and Ride facility in Taunton. When police officers and fire crews from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service arrived, they found a horrifying scene. Flames had engulfed a cluster of minibuses owned by Somerset Council, vehicles that were essential for transporting disabled individuals and school children.
Images released by Avon and Somerset Police show the aftermath of the fire, revealing the extent of the devastation. Multiple minibuses were reduced to blackened shells, with shattered windows, mangled bonnets, and roofs that had crumpled under the intense heat. The sight was one of complete destruction, leaving little doubt about the ferocity of the blaze that tore through the parked vehicles.
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Thankfully, no injuries were reported in connection with the fire. However, the loss of these specially adapted minibuses represents a significant blow to the community, especially for those who relied on these services daily for access to education, activities, and essential appointments.
Investigation Underway as Community Feels the Impact
Police have confirmed that an investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing. Officers are appealing for anyone who was in the area between 7 pm and 8 pm on Saturday to come forward, particularly if they witnessed any suspicious behavior or have dashcam footage that might assist with inquiries.
A statement from Avon and Somerset Police emphasized the seriousness of the situation: “This will have a significant impact on vulnerable members of the community, and officers urge anyone who was in the area at the time to come forward.” Investigators are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have seen suspicious activity around the park and ride during the critical time window.
We need witnesses/dashcam after a fire at Silk Mills Park & Ride #Taunton which destroyed minibuses used by people with disabilities & schoolchildren.
— Avon and Somerset Police (@ASPolice) April 27, 2025
If you can help pls call 101 ref 5225117181. We expect Park & Ride & school services to run tomorrow, but check @TravelSomerset. pic.twitter.com/RPpXPmz9VL
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is also conducting its own investigation into the incident. Working alongside the police, fire investigators will seek to establish whether the fire was accidental or deliberate. The possibility of foul play has not been ruled out, though authorities are keeping an open mind as they gather evidence.
The loss of these vehicles has disrupted essential transport services, although Somerset Council has reassured the public that park-and-ride and school services will operate as normal on Monday. The council has advised people to monitor the Travel Somerset X page for the latest updates regarding transport arrangements.
Community Resilience and Rebuilding
The destruction of the seven minibuses marks a challenging moment for Somerset Council and the local community. These vehicles were more than just transportation; they were a lifeline for many disabled residents and school children, offering access to education, healthcare, social activities, and a sense of independence.
The community now faces the daunting task of replacing the lost vehicles and ensuring that the needs of vulnerable users are met in the interim. Somerset Council has not yet detailed how it plans to address the immediate shortage, but it is likely that temporary measures will need to be introduced to minimize disruption.
Local residents have expressed shock and sadness over the incident, with many taking to social media to voice their support for those affected. The broader impact on families and individuals who depended on these services daily cannot be underestimated.
In rural and semi-rural areas like Somerset, reliable and accessible transportation is vital, and the sudden loss of these minibuses represents more than just material damage—it affects lives and livelihoods.
Community groups, local businesses, and individuals may soon rally together to support recovery efforts, whether through fundraising, donations, or volunteering. The spirit of resilience often seen in times of adversity will undoubtedly be a crucial factor as Taunton moves forward from this devastating event.
The authorities continue to urge vigilance and cooperation from the public. Any piece of information, no matter how small, could be vital in understanding how the fire started and ensuring accountability if foul play is confirmed.
While the immediate priority is investigating the fire and restoring essential transport services, there will likely be longer-term discussions about improving security at public parking facilities like Silk Mills Park and Ride. Ensuring the safety of council-owned assets and the services they provide will be a key concern moving forward.
As the investigation progresses and the community begins the slow process of recovery, the fire at Silk Mills stands as a stark reminder of the importance of community solidarity and the need to protect services that play a critical role in supporting society’s most vulnerable members.