Man dies after being hit by vehicle in M60 tragedy near Heaton Park

Sunday, 20 July 2025 18:20

By David Murphy

Major motorway closure causes disruption for Oasis fans and drivers after man killed near junction 20

A man has died after being struck by a vehicle on the M60 motorway near Heaton Park, prompting a full closure of both carriageways and severe travel disruption across Greater Manchester.

The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon, 20 July, near junction 20 for Alkrington, triggering a large-scale emergency response. Greater Manchester Police confirmed that officers, alongside the fire and ambulance services, were called to the scene following reports of a “serious welfare incident”.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Traffic chaos ensued as the M60 was shut clockwise between junctions 19 and 21, and anticlockwise between junctions 22 and 19. National Highways confirmed that diversions were put in place, but significant delays were experienced throughout the evening.

The closure caused major disruption for thousands of Oasis fans travelling to Heaton Park for the band’s final reunion show. The Bee Network issued a warning stating: “This may impact your journey to Heaton Park for the Oasis concert.” They urged concertgoers and drivers to consider alternative routes and allow for additional travel time.

National Highways added in a statement: “The M60 in Greater Manchester is closed in both directions due to a serious incident within the J20 Alkrington Interchange. Greater Manchester Police are leading the response. The motorway is expected to remain closed for a protracted period.”

The full circumstances of the man’s death have not yet been confirmed. An investigation is underway and police have urged motorists to avoid the area while recovery and forensic work is completed.

Emergency traffic officers remained at the scene into Sunday evening, managing congestion and guiding vehicles caught within the closure.

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