News Beat
M6 closed in both directions following tragic discovery
The motorway was closed both ways between Junction 23 (Haydock) and Junction 26 (Orrell M58 junction) due to a police led Incident.
Emergency services including Greater Manchester Police are in attendance. National Highways Traffic Officers are also on scene.
A GMP spokesperson said: “Officers were called to reports of a concern for welfare on the M6 at around 7:42am this morning (Friday, January 16 2026). Sadly, a woman was pronounced dead at the scene.
“Formal identification has yet to take place but there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances. Junctions 23-26 are currently closed both north and southbound which is causing significant disruption and we would encourage a review of travel plans and ask for patience as emergency services conduct their enquiries.”
North West Highways said: “There are currently delays of 60 minutes on the approach to the northbound closure, with 5 miles of congestion. Southbound, there are 30 minute delays, 4 miles of congestion.
“Due to the nature of the incident there is currently no estimation for when the road will be reopen. We currently believe the M6 will remain closed throughout the day.”
