Appeal following collision on M1 - Watford

Officers are investigating a suspected road traffic collision where a man has sadly died.

The man’s body was found by police close to the hard shoulder of the M1 motorway between junctions 4 and 5 on the northbound carriageway at around 2.30pm yesterday (Monday 4 December).

It is suspected that he was struck by a vehicle which did not stop, some time between 4.30am on Sunday 3 December and 2.30pm on 4 December.

The road was closed whilst investigations took place and it was reopened at around 8.30pm the same day.

Detective Inspector Garry Webb, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Road Policing Unit, said: “Our thoughts are with the man’s family at this terrible time. Specially trained officers are supporting their family.

“We want to hear from anybody who saw what happened or has information that can help. If you were driving along the M1 and have a dash cam, please check it and get in touch if you spot something that might help our investigation.

“We believe a number of cars stopped when the collision occurred and we are particularly keen to hear from the driver of a white Mercedes.

“Finally, I would like to thank the public for their patience whilst we carried out investigations at the scene yesterday. We appreciate the road closure would have caused disruption.

“If you can help, please get in touch by emailing the team (opens in a new window) quoting Op Byron.”

You can also report information online, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat at or call the non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form (opens in new window).