Search for van crash man who jumped into Forth at Clackmannanshire Bridge

A major search is under way for a man who smashed his van into the barriers of the Clackmannanshire Bridge when he saw armed police and jumped into the water.

Police activated their blue lights and turned round the armed response unit when they spotted a Transit van with only three wheels travelling in the opposite direction.

After striking the bridge, the driver climbed out of the vehicle, over the barrier and plunged into the River Forth.

Police tried to save the man, who was alone, but he has not been seen since entering the water shortly before 3am on Friday.

The bridge remained closed in both directions on Friday night as the search in the Forth and Clackmannanshire area involving police and coastguard helicopters and firefighters continues.

The man’s family is being kept informed.

Chief Inspector Irene Ralston said: “At this time the main focus of this operation is to trace the man, who has not been seen since he went into the water, which was at high tide.

“Anyone with information relevant to this incident is asked to contact police immediately,” she added.