Emergency Services Rush to Scene After Bus Window Gives Way
Three high school pupils have been taken to hospital with potentially serious injuries after falling through a window on the top deck of a double-decker school bus in Greater Manchester. The alarming incident occurred on Bolton Road in Ashton-in-Makerfield at around 3.50pm on Wednesday, 7 January 2026.
Emergency services, including police, paramedics, and an air ambulance, were swiftly dispatched to the location. A cordon was established around the bus as forensic officers began their work at the scene. The children were transported to Manchester Children's Hospital for treatment. While their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, authorities have described them as 'potentially serious'.
Road Closure and Community Shock
The incident caused significant disruption, with Bolton Road closed for a period while emergency teams conducted their initial response. Heavy traffic built up in the area before police managed the flow and the road was reopened.
Local residents expressed their shock and concern. One woman living nearby told reporters she saw multiple emergency vehicles and spoke to children at the scene. 'They told me that the window at the top fell through and three kids fell out after it,' she said. Another neighbour described the scene as 'devastating' and 'shocking' after being diverted during the road closure.
Investigation Underway into Bus Safety
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that their investigation into the precise circumstances is in its 'early stages'. Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has pledged to work closely with both the police and the bus operator to support the ongoing enquiries.
In a statement, a TfGM spokesperson said: 'Our thoughts are with those injured and we want to wish them a speedy recovery.' Local councillor Danny Fletcher posted on social media, indicating that some of the children had sustained 'potentially life-changing injuries' and that he had contacted the schools involved to offer council support.
The focus now turns to understanding how the bus window failed and what measures can be taken to prevent a similar occurrence, raising immediate questions about vehicle safety checks and maintenance protocols for school transport.
