M66 crash – Man ‘suffers medical episode’ while driving van

Officers were called to reports of a crash on the motorway between the A56 at Edenfield and J1 at Walmersley at around 5.10pm. They said a Citroen Dispatch van crashed with the central reservation before junction one "as a result of a suspected medical episode." Traffic was turned around on the M66 following the serious crash (Image: Phil Taylor)

A man in his 50s was taken to hospital where he remains in a life-threatening condition, a force spokesperson added. The motorway was closed in both directions for several hours yesterday as emergency services rushed to the scene. RECAP: All lanes stopped on M66 near Ramsbottom due to crash [1]

Traffic on the northbound carriageway was released first while those heading south were turned around by traffic officers. Diversions were also put in place through local roads for those heaidng south. Queueing traffic on the M66 southbound (Image: Phil Taylor)

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) confirmed yesterday a person had been taken to hospital by colleagues from the North West Ambulance Service. North West Air Ambulance also confirmed their attendance but did not provide any further information. Officers Greater Manchester Police's (GMP) serious collision invesitgation unit are appealing for anyone who witnessed the crash to come forward.

The road was closed for several hours while emergency services dealt with the incident (Image: Phil Taylor) Anyone with information should call 0161 856 4741 quoting log 2419 of April 16. Information can also be shared via the report tool or LiveChat function on the GMP website.

Alternatively, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

References

^ All lanes stopped on M66 near Ramsbottom due to crash (www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk)
^ Person taken to hospital after 'serious' crash on M66 (www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk)