A teenager died in a fatal incident on the M60 on Sunday, July 20, police have confirmed. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said they were called to reports of a concern for welfare on the M60 on Sunday, July 20.

The motorway was closed in both directions between J19 for Middleton and J22 for Chadderton following the incident, which occurred near J20, shortly after 5pm, resulting in traffic gridlock. The motorway reopened at around 4am on Monday morning, Manchester Evening News reports. It was initially reported that a man had died on the motorway, but the force have since confirmed the victim was a child.

“Sadly, a 15-year-old boy died at the scene. His next of kin have been informed”, GMP said.

In a statement yesterday alerting drivers to the incident and consequent travel disruption, National Highways said: “The M60 in Greater Manchester is closed in both directions, clockwise between J19 Rhodes Interchange (Middleton, Manchester (Cen) A576) and J21 Broadway Interchange (Chadderton A663).

“Anti-clockwise is closed between J22 Holinwood Interchange (Oldham, Failsworth A62) and J19.”

“This is due to a serious incident which has occurred within the J20 Alkrington Interchange (Blackley, Moston A664) Greater Manchester Police are leading the response to the incident and it is expected the road will be closed for a protracted period.

“North West Ambulance Service have also attended the incident. National Highways Traffic Officers are in attendance and assisting with traffic management.”

The closure impacted thousands of Oasis fans heading to the band’s final homecoming show at Heaton Park.

Oasis fans ditched their cars and walked along the carriageway in a bid to make the concert after motorists became stuck in the M60 closure.

The closure impacted fans travelling to watch Oasis play at Manchester’s Heaton Park on Sunday, with reports of fans leaving their cars and walking along the carriageway to make the concert.

GMP issued yesterday a warning drivers, including fans of the reunited Brit pop band that day, of “severe delays on the M60 tonight after a fatal incident earlier on Sunday”.

“Both directions are expected to remain closed between junctions 19 and 21 until midnight,” the force continued. “This may impact the thousands of people who are at tonight’s final Oasis concert at Heaton Park.

“We will have a large number of police resources on the motorway and on local roads to help minimise disruption for concertgoers, the public, and partners.

“We strongly advise people to avoid travelling in the area if they can. Those planning to travel must prepare for severe delays and plan their journey ahead. We thank the public for their patience and cooperation.”