The M6 motorway is shut in both directions for most of the day after a woman was found dead early this morning. Emergency services were called over welfare concerns and have now confirmed the tragic death.
Fatal Discovery Near Wigan Closes Motorway
Police rushed to the M6 between junctions 23 and 26 near Wigan just after 7.40am on Friday, January 16. A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police confirmed a woman was pronounced dead at the scene.
“Officers were called to reports of a concern for welfare on the M6 at around 7:42am this morning (Friday, January 16 2026). Sadly a woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Formal identification has yet to take place but there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances.”
M6 Closed Both Ways – No Reopening Time Yet
The stretch of motorway from junction 23 to junction 26 remains closed northbound and southbound, causing major delays. National Highways say there is currently no estimate on when the road will reopen as investigations continue.
Officials urge drivers to plan ahead, allow extra journey time, or avoid the area if possible.
