At around 2:00 pm, there was an incident on the M6 in Greater Manchester between junctions 26 at Skelmersdale and 27 at Standish.
After claiming at first that they were responding to allegations of a “person falling from a bridge,” police have now acknowledged that a woman has passed away.
While a police investigation is underway, a portion of the motorway is closed.
Police statement
“At approximately 1.25 am this morning Friday, August 16, 2024, we were called to the junction 27 of the M6 for a concern for the welfare of a female,” a Greater Manchester Police spokesperson stated in a statement.
“When we got there, we tragically found the woman’s body.
“As investigators continue, the M6 southbound between junctions 27 and 26 is closed.”
In the near future, significant delays are anticipated in the area. I appreciate your patience during this period.
“If anyone has any information about this incident or any footage, including dashcam, CCTV, or mobile phone footage is asked to call 101 quoting log number 171 of 16/08/2024.”
There is currently no estimated time available for when the M6 southbound between J27 and J26 can open.
Diversion routes
Road users are advised to follow the ‘Solid Square’ diversion symbol on local road signs:
Non-HGV route includes a low railway bridge 12’0″ (3.6m) and narrow canal bridge.
Leave the M6 at J27.
At the roundabout take the first exit and join the A5209. Follow the A5209.
At the junction with the B5206 turn right onto the B5206 southbound (Shevington Lane).
At the junction with the A577 turn left and join the A577 eastbound (Orrel Road).
At M6 J26 turn right onto the access road.
At the roundabout take the first exit and re-join the M6 south.
HGV route
Leave the M6 at J27.
At the roundabout take the first exit and join the A5209. Follow the A5209.
At the junction with the A49 turn right and join the A49 southbound (Wigan Road).
At the A49/Saddle Gyratory, join the A577 westbound (Ormskirk Road).
At M6 J26 turn right onto the access road.
At the roundabout take the first exit and re-join the M6 south.
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