Bolton taxi crash kills three teens and driver

Published: 12 January 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

A Bolton taxi crash has tragically claimed the lives of three teenagers and a man in his 50s, Greater Manchester police confirmed. The fatal collision, involving a red Seat Leon and a Citroën C4 Picasso taxi, occurred on Wigan Road at about 12.45am on Sunday. The driver of the Seat, two of its passengers, and the taxi driver died instantly. Emergency services rushed to the scene, treating five injured passengers who were later taken to hospital for urgent care.

Formal identification of the victims is still underway. Initial reports indicate the deceased include three teenagers aged 18 to 19 and a taxi driver in his 50s. Ch Insp Helen McCormick expressed condolences to the families and confirmed that specialist support was being provided. “One incident is one too many and will do nothing to bring back the four lives lost today. My thoughts are with everyone affected,” she said.

Firefighters, a technical response unit, and a tactical aid team quickly attended the scene. They used cutting equipment to rescue people trapped inside the vehicles before handing them over to the North West Ambulance Service. Greater Manchester police cordoned off the crash site to allow a full investigation. Crews worked for roughly two hours to secure the area.

Local witnesses described the chaotic moments after the Bolton taxi crash. One resident told Bolton News that a loud bang was heard precisely at 12.44am, followed by terrified screams from nearby pedestrians. “A woman screamed and started running away, almost fainting. Police had to stop her for safety,” the resident said.

Police are appealing to anyone with information about the crash to come forward. Authorities are particularly keen to hear from witnesses who saw the vehicles before the collision or captured dashcam or CCTV footage. Tips can be reported to the Serious Collision Investigation Unit at 0161 856 4741, quoting log 111 of 11/01/2026, or anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

The Bolton taxi crash has reignited debate over road safety measures in Greater Manchester. Experts emphasise stricter enforcement and improved infrastructure, especially in busy urban areas. Community leaders have urged urgent reviews of local roads to prevent similar tragedies, while families affected continue to receive specialist support.

Traffic authorities highlighted the dangers of late-night driving and speeding, noting the particular vulnerability of young drivers and taxi operators. Investigators plan to release preliminary findings soon, which could influence future road safety policies. Authorities continue to stress community vigilance, the importance of dashcam reporting, and adherence to speed limits.

Fire and rescue services confirmed the rapid response significantly aided in reducing injury severity. “Firefighters managed the vehicles safely and ensured injured individuals received immediate care,” a spokesperson said. Emergency teams remain committed to assisting police in ongoing investigations and safeguarding the local community.

The Bolton taxi crash underscores the devastating human impact of road collisions. With the loss of three young lives and a respected taxi driver, authorities are urging renewed attention to road safety, community awareness, and preventative measures. Officials pledged to update the public as investigations continue, reinforcing the commitment to justice and public safety.

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