M6 traffic accident today: Severe delays after lorry and van crash
A serious collision involving a van and a lorry on the M6 has resulted in significant traffic disruption, with the northbound carriageway remaining closed to motorists. The incident, which occurred late Sunday night, triggered an extensive emergency response and complex recovery operations between junction 23 and junction 24.
Merseyside Police and National Highways have confirmed that emergency services were dispatched to the scene following reports of a vehicle fire. While the southbound lanes were cleared and reopened early Monday morning, recovery teams continue to manage the northbound closure due to the necessity of removing burnt-out debris and ensuring the road surface is safe for transit.
Here is what authorities have confirmed about the incident.
M6 Traffic Accident: The Incident Timeline
- Emergency Dispatch: Reports were received at approximately 22:00 BST on Sunday regarding a multi-vehicle collision involving a heavy goods vehicle and a van.
- Initial Arrival: Merseyside Police, alongside Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, arrived at the scene to find both vehicles involved in a fire.
- Access Complications: The severity of the fire required specialized equipment to extinguish, necessitating a total closure of the motorway in both directions.
- Rescue Operations: Emergency personnel worked through the night to secure the site and initiate medical response protocols.
- Fatalities / Critical Casualties: While the scene has been processed, official reports indicate a fatality occurred as a result of the incident, leading to extended police investigation requirements.
- Response Scale: National Highways coordinated with regional emergency services to manage a nearly 24-hour closure window, prioritizing scene safety and environmental cleanup.
Incident Origin and Official Statements
The collision occurred on the northbound carriageway between junction 23 in Newton-le-Willows, Merseyside, and junction 24 in Ashton-in-Makerfield, Greater Manchester. Preliminary investigations suggest a high-impact collision between the two vehicles resulted in a rapid ignition of fuel and debris. The site has been treated as a critical incident scene, requiring forensic experts to document the path of the vehicles before debris removal could begin.
“Specialist clear up works to remove burnt out debris is ongoing.” — Official Spokesperson, National Highways
Authorities have been working to account for all involved individuals and notify next of kin. The intensity of the fire has complicated the recovery process, requiring heavy machinery to clear the carriageway safely.
Active Investigation & Local Road Impacts
The forensic investigation remains ongoing, with Merseyside Police leading the inquiry into the specific cause of the collision. The impact on traffic has been severe, with delays of up to an hour reported for commuters during the morning peak hours. Diversion routes have been established for traffic heading northbound to bypass the closure between the affected junctions.
- Road Closures: The M6 northbound remains closed between J23 (Newton-le-Willows) and J24 (Ashton-in-Makerfield).
- Public Notice: Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes via the A49 or local A-roads where possible to avoid the stationary traffic on the motorway approach.
- Information Appeal: Police are urgently requesting that any witnesses or motorists with dashcam footage who were in the vicinity of the M6 junctions 23-24 at 22:00 BST on Sunday contact the Merseyside Police control room immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the latest official update on this incident?
The M6 southbound has reopened, but the northbound carriageway remains closed as of the latest update. Specialist teams are currently completing the removal of burnt-out vehicle debris to ensure the road is safe for public use.
Who is leading the investigation into the origin and cause?
Merseyside Police are leading the investigation into the circumstances of the crash. They are working in coordination with National Highways to manage site access and clear the scene.
How can eyewitnesses or local residents share information or video footage?
Witnesses can provide information or submit dashcam footage directly to Merseyside Police. Additionally, story inquiries or updates can be directed via official channels or the BBC Merseyside contact line at 0808 100 2230.
