Man dies after being struck by tram

A man has died after being hit by a tram in Oldham this morning (Friday).

He was struck by the vehicle at the Shaw and Crompton stop at around 5.55am and was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency services. 

Greater Manchester Police said: "Shortly before 5.55am this morning (Friday 17 January 2020), police were called to reports that a tram had collided with a man near to the Shaw and Crompton tram stop.

“The man has sadly been pronounced dead at the scene. Enquiries are ongoing to establish how the man came to be on the tracks.

“The tram line in the immediate area is currently closed. Please follow @OfficialTfGM for travel information.

“Anyone with information should call police on 101 quoting incident number 395 of 17/01/2020, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”

Danny Vaughan, Head of Metrolink at Transport for Greater Manchester, has issued a statement. It reads:

"Earlier this morning a man was involved in a collision with a tram between Derker and Shaw and Crompton tram stops.

“Emergency services were quickly in attendance but sadly could not save him.

“This is a tragic incident and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this deeply upsetting time.

“We will also be working with the operator to ensure the necessary support is put in place for the driver and any other staff affected by what has happened.

“Police are currently dealing with this incident, which has also been referred to the Rail Accident Investigation Branch, and we will do whatever we can to support either agency in any subsequent investigation.

“Services are currently suspended between Oldham Mumps and Rochdale Town Centre while police remain at the scene.

“Customers are able to use their tickets and passes on local bus and train services and I’d like to thank them for their patience and understanding this morning.”

Services on the Rochdale line are operating from Oldham Mumps to East Didsbury in either direction at this time due to a police incident near the Shaw and Crompton stop. Ticket acceptance is in place on Northern Rail services, and on buses: 58, 59, 81, 83, 181, 182, 184, 471.

— Manchester Metrolink (@MCRMetrolink) January 17, 2020

***SERVICE DISRUPTION***
Due to an RTC in Shaw Town centre the 58, 59, 181 & 182 buses are using Crompton Way in both directions until the issue has cleared. We will keep you updated. ^DW

— First Manchester (@FirstManchester) January 17, 2020

Bullcote Lane in Royton has also been closed off.