Man dies in fall from bridge on motorway

A full closure of the M62 was needed while officers managed the incident and carried out investigation work on the westbound section of the motorway.

The eastbound side reopened by 9.30am and the westbound carriageway was reopened at 11am.

It caused heavy delays for drivers on the M62 with those on the westbound section turned round and diverted back off at junction 23 at Outlane.

Diversions through Outlane and Ripponden led to a high volume of cars using local roads to drive towards Manchester.

The tragic incident led to sympathy from Examiner readers on our social media pages with many calling for greater support for people with mental health conditions.

Tracey Louise Bland wrote: “So sad, he must have been in a terrible place, thoughts are with his family. I’d urge all to please keep in touch with your loved ones and be there to support those that are struggling.”

Joanne Ellison wrote: “Very sad, there needs to be more support and help provided for people suffering mental illness. My heart goes out to his family.”

Andrew Dyson wrote: “So sad for the individual concerned and I have sympathy for him and his family.

“That being said, this bridge needs to be fenced to stop this happening.

“Somebody as desperate as this will always find a way but if there was a deterrent he might have thought differently and sought out help.”

Previously calls for a higher fence on the bridge has been ruled out, but the Examiner has asked the authorities if they will re-look at safety issues on the bridge.

People who need support can talk to the Samaritans free by calling 116 123.