Authorities are requesting the public’s cooperation in an investigation following the tragic death of a 12-year-old boy on the M62 near Cleckheaton last night (Saturday, 5 August).
The incident occurred around 9.50 pm on the eastbound carriageway between junctions 25 and 26 when the boy was struck by a vehicle. He was found on the westbound carriageway. Regrettably, the vehicle responsible did not stop at the scene.
Prior to the collision, police had received reports of a single-vehicle accident involving an Audi Q5 on the slip road to Hartshead Services at approximately 9.30 pm. Subsequent reports revealed that just before the incident on the eastbound carriageway, two individuals were seen walking along the motorway.
Emergency services responded to the scene and discovered a man on the hard shoulder of the motorway. He received medical treatment for minor injuries.
In connection with the incident, a 36-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing or allowing the death of a child and is presently in police custody. The authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist in the investigation.
Detective Chief Superintendent Sarah Jones said: “This is an absolutely tragic incident that has resulted in the death of a young boy. We have specialist officers supporting his family at this extremely difficult time.
“We understand that he was trying to make his way from the central reservation to the hard shoulder when he has been hit by a vehicle. The driver of this vehicle has not stopped at the scene or reported this collision to the police, and I would urge them to come forward now and assist us in our enquiries.
“We are also asking anyone who was driving along the M62 between Hartshead Moor and the M606 last night between 9.30pm and 9.50pm to please check any dashcam footage you may have of this incident.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Major Collision Enquiry Team by using 101 Live Chat or by calling 101, quoting log 1786 of 5 August.
A full closure of the M62 in both directions between junctions 25 and 26 was put in place overnight while emergency services dealt with this incident. This has now been lifted.
