The northbound M6 in Greater Manchester remained closed on Tuesday morning, more than a day after a van and lorry collided and caught fire, killing 41-year-old van driver Vadim Suflet and forcing National Highways to strip and resurface three lanes before traffic can safely return.
What happened on Sunday night
Merseyside Police said officers were called at about 9:55 p.m. on Sunday to reports of a crash between junction 23 for Newton-le-Willows and junction 24 for Ashton-in-Makerfield. A van and a heavy goods vehicle collided on the northbound carriageway; the impact started a fire that spread across the roadway. Emergency services closed the motorway in both directions while crews fought the blaze.
Suflet, the van driver, was pronounced dead at the scene. Police later released his name and said specialist officers were supporting his family. The lorry driver stopped at the scene and was assisting investigators, police said. The southbound side reopened on Monday afternoon, but engineers determined the northbound surface could not reopen until damaged asphalt and a large fuel spill were removed.
Why the closure is lasting into Tuesday
In an update late Monday, National Highways said emergency resurfacing was required on lanes one, two and three of four after the fire scarred the pavement. Because of the spill and safety margins, lane four must also stay shut until the work finishes. The agency warned there was no estimated reopening time and that drivers should expect the northbound closure to run through the night into Tuesday.
Traffic monitors reported lengthy delays on diversion routes as commuters and hauliers rerouted around Warrington and St Helens. Police asked motorists to check National Highways alerts before travelling and to allow extra time if they must cross the Pennines or reach Liverpool and Manchester airports via alternative motorways.
Investigation and identification
Merseyside Police said the investigation was ongoing to establish how the vehicles came together and whether any offences beyond the fatal collision might be considered. Naming Suflet publicly was part of the standard process once next of kin had been informed. No further arrests were announced by Tuesday morning.
What drivers should expect
Until National Highways declares the northbound M6 open, long-distance traffic between the Midlands and Lancashire will need to use signed diversions, typically pushing vehicles onto the M62 or local A-roads through Wigan. The closure is a reminder of how quickly a single serious crash can freeze a core freight corridor: even after flames are out, fuel contamination can add hours or days to repair work. Authorities have not said when normal four-lane running will resume.