The M61 motorway has been closed in both directions between junction 8 for Chorley and junction 8 for Horwich since just before midnight, following a serious road traffic collision. Emergency services were promptly dispatched to the scene after officers received reports of the incident. The crash involved a Citroen C1, which initially collided with the motorway barrier. Subsequently, the Citroen struck a Mercedes-Benz that was traveling in the same southbound direction. Tragically, a man in his twenties, who was a passenger in the Citroen, lost his life as a result of the collision.
The driver of the Citroen, along with another passenger, sustained serious injuries and were both transported to the hospital for medical treatment. The driver of the Mercedes also suffered significant injuries and was similarly taken to the hospital. The severity of the incident has led to a thorough investigation being launched, with the motorway remaining closed for an extended period to facilitate this process.
Sgt. Kasim Hussain from Lancashire Police’s Road Policing Unit expressed his condolences, stating, “This collision has very sadly seen a young man lose his life, and my thoughts first and foremost are with his family and loved ones during this distressing time.” He further mentioned that the carriageway would remain closed for an extended period while officers conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
As part of the ongoing investigation, authorities are appealing for any individuals who may have witnessed the collision to come forward. Sgt. Hussain urged, “If anyone was driving on the M61 near the scene of the collision and has dashcam footage, we want to hear from them.” The police are keen to gather as much evidence as possible to piece together the events leading up to the crash, and any information provided by witnesses could prove invaluable in this process.
Witnesses or anyone with relevant footage or information regarding the incident are encouraged to contact Lancashire Police by calling 101 and quoting log number 1497 of October 15, 2024. Alternatively, they can reach out via email at [email protected]. The police are committed to conducting a thorough and comprehensive investigation, and any assistance provided by the public could significantly aid their efforts.
The closure of the motorway has caused significant disruption to traffic in the area, with drivers being advised to avoid the region and seek alternative routes. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety, and the devastating consequences that can result from even a momentary lapse in concentration or judgment.
The investigation into the collision is ongoing, with officers working tirelessly to establish the cause of the crash. The police are exploring all possible factors, including the condition of the vehicles involved, the road surface, and the weather at the time of the incident. They are also examining the actions of the drivers involved, including their speed, braking, and steering in the lead-up to the collision.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many people taking to social media to express their condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. The crash is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones.
As the investigation continues, the police are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist them in their efforts to establish the truth behind the collision. The family of the deceased and the wider community are eagerly awaiting the outcome of the investigation, and any information provided by witnesses could help bring closure to those affected by this tragic event.
The incident has also raised questions about road safety in the region, with many people calling for improved safety measures to be implemented on the M61. The motorway is a major transportation artery, with thousands of vehicles using it every day. While the cause of the crash has not yet been determined, the incident has highlighted the need for continued investment in road safety initiatives and infrastructure.
In the aftermath of the collision, the police are working closely with the family of the deceased to provide support and guidance during this difficult time. They are also working with the coroner’s office to establish the cause of death and to ensure that the necessary procedures are followed.
As the community comes to terms with the tragic loss of life, the police are urging everyone to remain vigilant and to take extra care on the roads. The incident is a sobering reminder of the importance of road safety, and the devastating consequences that can result from even a momentary lapse in concentration or judgment.
The investigation into the collision is ongoing, and the police are committed to conducting a thorough and comprehensive investigation. They are working tirelessly to establish the cause of the crash and to bring closure to the family and friends of the deceased. As the community continues to mourn the loss of life, the police are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist them in their efforts to establish the truth behind the collision.