A major investigation is underway after a man tragically died on the hard shoulder of the M62 motorway, causing significant disruption during the morning rush hour.
Cheshire Police were scrambled to the scene between junction 5 for Everton and junction 6 for Halebank, near Liverpool, shortly after 7:30 am on Tuesday following reports of a sudden death.
Emergency services, including North West Ambulance Service, attended the incident but sadly pronounced the man dead at the scene. The eastbound carriageway was immediately closed to allow for a full forensic examination, leading to long tailbacks and severe travel delays for commuters.
Police have confirmed they are treating the man's death as unexplained and are urgently working to identify him and notify his next of kin. A cordon remains in place as officers conduct a thorough scene investigation.
Appeal for Witnesses
Authorities have launched a public appeal for information. Detective Inspector Andrew Maskey of Cheshire Police stated: "We are in the very early stages of an investigation to establish the circumstances that have led to the death of this man."
"I would urge anyone who was travelling on the eastbound carriageway of the M62 between junctions 5 and 6 between 7 am and 7:30 am this morning who may have seen anything that may aid our investigation to please get in touch."
Motorists with dashcam footage from the area and time frame are also being encouraged to contact the police, as it could provide crucial evidence for the investigation.
Travel Chaos for Commuters
The closure caused major disruption on one of the North West's busiest motorways. National Highways warned drivers to expect long delays and to allow extra time for their journeys, with congestion stretching back for miles.
While all lanes have since reopened, residual delays are expected to last throughout the day as the backlog of traffic clears.
