M6 tragedy as pedestrian dies after being struck by vehicle near Carlisle

The incident required both the northbound and southbound carriageways to be closed
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


A pedestrian was tragically killed after being struck by a vehicle on the M6, police said.

Police, paramedics and highways officers rushed to the scene at junction 42 near Carlisle last night (September 14). The incident happened shortly after 8pm and required the motorway to be closed in both directions for around 12 hours.

Cumbria Police said this was to allow a forensic search and examination of the scene. The southbound carriageway reopened at around 8am this morning (September 15), however the northbound carriageway still remains closed between J41 and J43 for investigation works.

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Police are requesting anyone who was travelling along the M6, or had been travelling near to junction 42 on the A6, around the time of the incident who may have witnessed something or may have dashcam footage to contact police.

In a statement, a force spokesperson said: "The M6 is being reopened following a fatal collision involving a pedestrian on the M6 at junction 42 near Carlisle. The incident occurred at 8:05pm on Saturday 14 September and required both the northbound and southbound carriageways to be closed to allow a forensic search and examination of the scene.

"Police are requesting anyone who was travelling along the M6 or had been travelling near to junction 42 on the A6 around the time of the incident who may have witnessed something or may have dashcam footage to contact police. Anyone with information relating to this incident can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it, quoting incident number 238 of 14 September 2024.

"You can also phone on 101. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111."

National Highways said: "The M6 in Cumbria is closed northbound between J41 (Catterlen Interchange) and J43 (Carlisle) due to a serious collision involving a pedestrian. Cumbria Police are on scene.

"National Highways Traffic Officers are also on scene providing assistance with traffic management."

Traffic alert service Inrix reports: "M6 Northbound closed due to accident investigation work from J41 B5305 (Catterlen) to J43 A69 (Carlisle). Following a serious accident involving two vehicle overnight."

Diversion details

Northbound traffic is advised to follow the solid triangle diversion symbol:

  • Exit the M6 northbound at J41, and take the 4th exit on to the B5303 (signposted A6)

  • At Stoneybeck roundabout, take the A6 northbound

  • Continue straight on through Plumpton and High and Low Hesket

At J42 roundabout traffic is advised to follow the "Hollow Circle symbol"

  • At J42 roundabout take the third exit onto A6 westbound towards Carlisle

  • Turn right at London Road/Eastern Way traffic signals onto C1045 Eastern Way

  • Turn right at Eastern Way/Warwick Road traffic signals onto A69 eastbound

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