A fatal crash on the M6 motorway has led to significant disruption as the road was shut in both directions for several hours, following a lorry overturning and colliding with vehicles on the opposite carriageway.
The incident occurred at around 11:20 GMT on Wednesday, between Junctions 33 near Lancaster and 32 near Preston. Emergency services responded promptly to the scene, where a lorry had overturned after hitting the central reservation.
The vehicle’s impact caused debris to scatter across the road, and the lorry ended up blocking the opposite southbound carriageway, hitting the rear of a car.
National Highways confirmed that the M6 was closed in both directions following the crash, with the closure affecting motorists travelling north and south.
While the southbound lanes remained closed for an extended period, repairs and investigations began immediately on the northbound carriageway.
By 04:00 GMT Thursday, two lanes of the northbound carriageway were reopened, although the outside lane on the northbound side remained closed for repairs.
Authorities warned that drivers should expect significant delays and diversions in both directions. Southbound traffic was particularly affected as diversions were put in place to help ease congestion.
The fatality occurred inside the vehicle struck by the overturned lorry, but the identity of the deceased has not been disclosed by the police.
Authorities are working to confirm the details of the crash and have appealed for anyone with information to come forward.
In addition to the fatality, police confirmed that several other people involved in the crash had sustained serious injuries.
Although the precise number of injured individuals has not been released, local authorities stated that a number of people were rushed to nearby hospitals.
The nature and severity of their injuries remain unclear, and the police are investigating how the crash unfolded.
An investigation is now underway to determine the cause of the collision. Local police officers, along with the Highways Agency and emergency response teams, have continued to work through the night to clear the wreckage and ensure the road is safe for reopening.
Motorists are being advised to avoid the area if possible and to expect delays for the foreseeable future. The M6 is a major route for both local and long-distance traffic, and the incident has caused significant disruptions.
No further updates about the crash or the conditions of the other individuals involved have been made available at this time. Authorities have asked drivers to be patient as repairs continue and investigations proceed.
