Tragedy as man dies after being struck by lorry on M56 near Manchester Airport

A man has died after being struck by a lorry on the M56 motorway.

Police were first called to the motorway yesterday evening (August 14) to ‘reports of a man on the hard shoulder’ between junctions six and five, close to the exit for Manchester Airport^[1]. It is believed the man – a 42-year-old pedestrian – was then struck by an ‘articulated vehicle’ which was travelling along the motorway at around 9pm.

Tragically, he died on the scene. His next of kin has been informed and an investigation into the incident is underway to ‘understand the circumstances’.

The eastbound stretch of the M56 was fully closed off as emergency crews responded^[3] last night. The motorway remained shut off overnight as accident investigation work was carried out on the scene.

Police reopened the road at around 7.30am this morning. Any witnesses of the incident, or anyone with dash cam footage, should get in touch with Greater Manchester Police^[4].

In a statement, GMP said: “Last night we were called to reports of a man on the hard shoulder on the M56, between junction 6 and 5. At around 9pm, it’s believed that an articulated vehicle was travelling along the M56 towards Manchester when it collided with a pedestrian.

“Sadly, despite the best efforts of emergency services, the pedestrian, a 42-year-old man, was pronounced deceased at the scene. His next of kin have been informed, and an investigation is underway to understand the circumstances.

“We are now appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward. Police are also keen to speak to anyone who may have any footage, including dashcam, CCTV, or mobile phone footage from the area in the moments leading up to the collision.

“Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting log number 3511 of 14/08/2024. Information can also be shared using our LiveChat function on our website: www.gmp.police.uk^[5] or via 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.

“Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity – Crimestoppers – anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

1. ^ Manchester Airport (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
2. ^{^} Salford tower block murder probe: Family pay tribute to ‘loving’ dad-of-three (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
3. ^{^} was fully closed off as emergency crews responded (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
4. ^{^} Greater Manchester Police (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
5. ^{^} www.gmp.police.uk (www.gmp.police.uk)
6. ^{^}