Boy, 15, killed in M60 horror tragedy ahead of Oasis gig

Police have issued a major update following the death of a boy on a major motorway at the weekend.

The victim of the tragedy on the M60, who was previously reported to be a man, has now been identified as a 15-year-old boy. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) were called to the motorway following concerns for welfare on Sunday. "Sadly, a 15-year-old boy died at the scene. His next of kin have been informed," said a spokesperson.

The force issued a warning over travel disruption after officers rushed to the scene. They said at the time: "There are severe delays on the M60 tonight after a fatal incident earlier today. Both directions are expected to remain closed between junctions 19 and 21 until midnight. We strongly advise people to avoid travelling in the area if they can. Thank you for your co-operation."

The road was gridlocked until the motorway reopened around 4am today (Monday). The closure impacted thousands of Oasis fans heading to the band's final homecoming show at Heaton Park.

READ MORE: M5 chaos LIVE as multi-vehicle crash shuts motorway with two mile tailbacks

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, reports Manchester Evening News.

In a statement on Sunday, GMP added: "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."

A statement shared by National Highways yesterday read: "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."