Tragedy as man found dead after emergency services scrambled to M61 motorway

The body of a man was found on the M61 in the early hours of this morning. Police were called to reports of a concern for welfare of a man on the M61, near Bolton, at about 4.30am today (January 4). Emergency services attended the scene, at junction 6 for Middlebrook, and found the man's body.

There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding his death. Greater Manchester Police[1] has launched an investigation into the tragic incident, which has led to the motorway being closed for more than 12 hours. The M61 has been shut between junction 6 and junction 5 for Westhoughton throughout today. Diversions remain in place this evening.

Officers are now appealing for any witnesses to come forward. A spokesperson for GMP said: "At approximately 4:30am this morning (Saturday 4 January), police were called to reports of a concern for welfare of a man on the M61. "Emergency services attended and sadly a deceased male was found on the M61 southbound at junction 6 (Middlebrook).

There are believed to be no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death. The Serious Collision Investigation Unit and Bolton[2] CID are currently undertaking a joint investigation. "Officers are now appealing for any witnesses who may have been present in the area at the time to make a report to police.

This includes appealing to anyone who may have relevant dashcam footage.

"You can make a report by calling 0161 856 5757 quoting incident number 438 of 4/1/25."

References

1. ^ Greater Manchester Police (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
2. ^ Bolton (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)