MANCHESTER, UK — A traffic accident in Eccles, Greater Manchester, has left fifteen people injured after a double-decker bus collided with a railway bridge, shearing off its roof. The incident occurred this afternoon at the junction of Barton Lane and Trafford Road, prompting a rapid and large-scale emergency response.
Scene of Chaos and Quick Action
At approximately 2:00 p.m., emergency services were called to the scene of a collision involving the number 100 bus—operated by Diamond Bus North West—which runs between Shudehill and Warrington, via Salford and the Trafford Centre. According to witnesses, the bus struck the low railway bridge, causing the upper deck’s roof to be ripped off almost entirely.
Images from the scene show a dramatic and deeply distressing aftermath: fire crews climbing atop the bus, windows shattered, and debris scattered across the roadway. An air ambulance was also deployed, highlighting the seriousness of the injuries sustained in the crash.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police stated:
“We are currently responding to a collision between a bus and a bridge at the junction of Barton Road and Trafford Road in Eccles. Emergency services are on scene. Please avoid the area due to road closures currently in place.”
Emergency Services Respond
The North West Ambulance Service confirmed they had dispatched multiple resources to the scene.
“Following reports of an RTC (road traffic collision) involving a bus in Eccles, we have deployed crews to provide urgent medical attention. Our priority is to ensure those injured receive the care they need as quickly as possible,” a representative said.
Of the 15 confirmed injured, the extent of the injuries has not been fully disclosed, though several passengers were treated at the scene for trauma-related injuries. Some were transported to nearby hospitals for further evaluation.
Witness Accounts and Community Reaction
Residents and passersby described the scene as “shocking” and “surreal.” One eyewitness, who works at a nearby business, told reporters:
“We heard this loud bang, then sirens. When we got outside, we saw the roof had come clean off the top of the bus. It’s a miracle nobody died.”
Social media has been flooded with images and videos of the crash site, with messages of concern and well-wishes pouring in from across Manchester and beyond. Several local councillors have also expressed their support and urged caution around the area.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have yet to confirm whether the bus was rerouted incorrectly or if the driver was unfamiliar with the area. Network Rail signage around many low bridges typically warns of height restrictions, and this will be a critical part of the investigation.
Greater Manchester Police have urged the public not to speculate until official findings are released.
“We are working with transport authorities and the bus operator to determine exactly how this occurred,” a GMP representative added.
Ongoing Disruption
Road closures remain in place as clean-up efforts and a detailed crash assessment continue. Traffic has been diverted, and commuters are advised to avoid the Barton Lane and Trafford Road junction for the foreseeable future.
Support and Reflection
While no fatalities have been reported at the time of this writing, the emotional impact on passengers, emergency workers, and the local community is profound. Many have pointed out that the crash could have resulted in much worse had the upper deck been fully occupied.
Transport for Greater Manchester and the bus company involved have both committed to cooperating fully with investigators. In a brief statement, the bus operator said:
“Our thoughts are with those affected, and we are offering our full support to the emergency services and investigators.”
Looking Ahead
As investigations continue, attention is also turning to broader questions of safety around bridge clearances and public transport routes in urban areas. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance, proper signage, and up-to-date route planning systems.