Terrifying Crash in Eccles as Double-Decker Bus Hits Bridge, Rips Off Roof – 15 Hospitalised
Fifteen people have been taken to hospital — three with serious injuries — after a double-decker bus crashed into a low bridge, ripping its roof clean off and sending passengers into a panic.
The incident occurred around 12:30pm at the junction of Barton Lane and Trafford Road, Eccles, when the 100 Stagecoach service, which had departed from Shudehill en route to Warrington via Salford and Trafford Centre, attempted to pass under a clearly signed low bridge.
“Screams from the top of the bus”
Harrowing video footage captured the moment the bus struck the bridge, violently tearing off the upper deck’s roof. Witnesses described hearing screams coming from the top of the bus, with passengers ducking for cover as glass shattered and debris fell.
Emergency services, including firefighters, paramedics, and two air ambulances, rushed to the scene. One eyewitness recalled seeing a woman waving emergency responders toward the wreckage, while others described passengers being treated on the roadside.
Serious injuries confirmed
Greater Manchester Police confirmed that three people sustained serious injuries, while others suffered cuts, bruises, and shock.
A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said:
“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 remain on scene. Please avoid the area due to ongoing road closures.”
Urgent investigation launched
Vernon Everitt, Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester, confirmed an urgent investigation is underway in partnership with Greater Manchester Police, Transport for Greater Manchester, and the bus operator Stagecoach.
“First and foremost, our thoughts are with everyone on board the bus.
We are working closely with GMP and Stagecoach to determine how this happened. This is clearly a distressing situation for everyone involved.”
The bridge, which has clear height restriction signage, has been involved in previous incidents, and local residents are now questioning whether more should be done to prevent future collisions.
If you witnessed the crash or have dashcam footage, contact Greater Manchester Police or call 101.
