A 24-year-old man has died in a crash on the M62, leading to severe traffic disruption in Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire. The incident occurred at approximately 11:30 PM on Sunday when the driver’s Audi A5 S Line veered off the carriageway and collided with a bridge between Junctions 19 and 18 in Middleton, according to Greater Manchester Police.
Traffic Chaos as M62 Closure Leads to 12-Mile Tailbacks
The westbound carriageway remains closed near Junction 19 in Heywood, Rochdale, causing 90-minute delays and 12-mile traffic tailbacks. National Highways has urged motorists to avoid the area, as congestion has stretched as far back as Huddersfield in West Yorkshire.
Car Catches Fire After Fatal Collision
Emergency services responded to the crash, and the vehicle reportedly caught fire upon impact. Authorities have yet to confirm when the motorway will fully reopen. Meanwhile, North West Motorway Police are conducting investigations at the scene.
Police Appeal for Witnesses and Dashcam Footage
Greater Manchester Police are appealing for witnesses and any available dashcam footage to help piece together the events leading up to the tragic crash.
“At the heart of this is a man that has sadly lost his life in tragic circumstances, leaving family and friends to grieve this morning,” said Detective Constable Rachael Stafford.
Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes until further updates are provided.
