Three secondary school pupils have been taken to hospital following a frightening incident where they fell through a window on the upper deck of a double-decker bus in Greater Manchester.
Emergency Response on Bolton Road
The alarming event occurred on Bolton Road in Ashton-in-Makerfield at approximately 3.50pm on Wednesday, 7 January 2026. Emergency services, including police, paramedics, and an air ambulance, rushed to the scene. The three teenagers were transported to hospital for treatment. While their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, authorities have described them as 'potentially serious'.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed they are investigating the circumstances that led to the pupils falling 'through a window on the top deck of a school bus'. A police cordon was established around the vehicle, and forensic officers were seen conducting their work at the location.
Traffic Chaos and Community Shock
The incident caused significant disruption during the afternoon rush hour. Bolton Road was temporarily closed, leading to heavy traffic build-up as police managed the flow of vehicles. One local resident described taking 45 minutes to travel just a few hundred yards due to the diversion.
Members of the local community expressed their shock and concern. One woman who lives nearby told how she saw multiple emergency vehicles and spoke to children at the scene who explained what had happened. 'It was obvious something serious had happened... It's a shame,' she said. Another neighbour called the event 'devastating' and 'shocking'.
Ongoing Investigations and Support
The road has since reopened following initial enquiries by emergency teams. GMP stated that their investigation is in its 'early stages' as they work to determine the full sequence of events.
Councillor Danny Fletcher, of the Ashton-on-Makerfield South ward, posted on social media, indicating that some of the children had suffered potentially life-changing injuries. He confirmed the pupils were taken to Manchester Children's Hospital and that he had contacted the schools involved to offer council support.
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) issued a statement confirming they are aware of the incident and are working closely with the bus operator and police to support the investigation. A spokesperson said: 'Our thoughts are with those injured and we want to wish them a speedy recovery.'
