Tributes to ‘gentle giant’ dad, 30, killed in M5 crash as family launch fundraiser

Joshua 'Josh' Bruton, 30, from Warwickshire, died at the scene of a two-vehicle crash in Gloucestershire

Kirstie McCrum Deputy Head of News, Live News Network and Lisa Letcher 11:05, 09 May 2026Updated 11:14, 09 May 2026

Joshua Bruton(Image: Gloucestershire Police )

An appeal has been launched following the tragic death of a beloved 'amazing' and 'gentle giant' dad in an M5 crash earlier this week that left his friends and family devastated.

Joshua 'Josh' Bruton died at the scene of a two-vehicle M5 crash in Gloucestershire at around 12.20pm on Wednesday, May 6. The loss of the 30-year-old, from Warwickshire, has left loved ones heartbroken.

A fundraising campaign has now been launched by family member Tilly Steer, aiming to offer financial assistance to his partner, Chloe, and their two-year-old son, Caden, reports Gloucestershire Live[1].

She explains: "Wednesday 6th May , our family lost Josh in a tragic fatal[2] 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 portrayed Josh as an exceptional father[3] with an enormous heart, revealing the couple lacked insurance or financial safeguards, noting "you never truly believe something like this could happen to you".

"We are raising funds to help support Chloe and Caden through the difficult months ahead helping with funeral costs, easing financial pressures, and giving them some stability while they try to navigate this unimaginable loss," she posted on the fundraising platform.

"Any donation, no matter how small, would mean the world to our family. And if you're unable to donate, please consider sharing this page and keeping Chloe, Caden, and our family in your thoughts.

"In honour of Josh, hold your loved ones a little tighter, say the things you mean, and live life to the fullest.

Wednesday this week, Josh woke up not knowing it would be the last time. He kissed his partner, Chloe, and his little boy, Caden, goodbye and told them he'd see them after work a moment no one ever imagines will be their last. Thank you for your kindness, compassion, and support."

In a tribute[4] following his death, Josh's 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.

"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, 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."

Officers continue to investigate the incident and are appealing for witnesses to the collision to come forward. Emergency crews rushed to the scene of the crash involving a grey Luton van and a Volkswagen Transporter at approximately 12.20pm on Wednesday, May 6.

The van left the northbound carriageway close to junction 9, near Tewkesbury, and driver Josh was pronounced dead at the scene. The fundraising appeal has collected roughly GBP9,500 to date. You can view and donate here.[5]

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References

1. ^ Gloucestershire Live (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
2. ^ fatal (www.coventrytelegraph.net)
3. ^ father (www.coventrytelegraph.net)
4. ^ tribute (www.coventrytelegraph.net)
5. ^ You can view and donate here. (www.gofundme.com)
6. ^ simply click here (www.google.com)