A quiet Thursday afternoon on one of the North West's busiest motorways turned to tragedy when a horrific multi-vehicle collision claimed three lives and left an infant fighting for survival.
The devastating incident occurred on the M53 near junction five at Hooton, Cheshire, sparking a massive emergency response that saw the motorway closed for over twelve hours during the critical investigation phase.
Emergency Response and Casualties
Cheshire Police confirmed the heartbreaking toll: three fatalities, including a man and woman both in their 40s, with a young infant rushed to Alder Hey Children's Hospital in critical condition. The collision involved multiple vehicles, though specific details about the vehicles involved remain under investigation.
Emergency services descended on the scene shortly after the incident was reported, with air ambulances, multiple police units, and fire crews working desperately at the scene. The North West Ambulance Service deployed significant resources to what they described as a "serious incident."
Investigation Underway
Sergeant Simon Degg of Cheshire Police's Serious and Complex Collision Investigation Unit is leading the inquiry into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. Police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage from anyone who was travelling on the M53 between junctions four and five around the time of the collision.
"This is a truly devastating incident, and our thoughts are with the families of those who have lost their lives and the young child who has been left critically ill," Sergeant Degg stated in an emotional press briefing.
Motorway Closure and Diversions
The collision caused massive disruption across the region's road network, with the M53 remaining closed in both directions between junctions four (Bebington) and five (Hooton) throughout Thursday evening and into Friday morning. National Highways implemented lengthy diversion routes while emergency services worked at the scene.
Commuters faced significant delays during Friday morning rush hour as recovery and investigation work continued, with motorists advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.
Community in Mourning
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond, with tributes pouring in for the victims. Local authorities have offered support services to those affected by the incident and to emergency service personnel who responded to the harrowing scene.
As the investigation continues, police are urging anyone with information to come forward to help piece together the events that led to this devastating loss of life on one of the region's key transport routes.
