A lorry driver has been killed and another driver seriously injured after a major motorway crash.
The M6 in Staffordshire remains closed southbound between J16 near Crewe and J15 near Stoke-on-Trent.
The driver of a lorry was killed at the scene after his vehicle collided with a car at around 9.50pm on Thursday.
A West Midlands Ambulance spokeswoman said: “On arrival crews found two men.
“The first patient, the driver of the lorry, was found in a critical condition and sadly, it quickly became apparent nothing could be done to save him, and he was confirmed deceased at the scene.”
She added: “The second patient, the driver of the car, was treated for potentially serious injuries before being conveyed under blue lights and sirens to Royal Stoke University Hospital.”
National Highways has warned of 30-minute delays approaching the scene on Friday morning and has urged motorists to follow diversions.
Images from the scene show a lorry stopped on the hard shoulder with a green protective barrier erected around it.
In its latest update, National Highways said normal traffic conditions were not expected to return until 3pm.
A spokesman said: "The M6 in Staffordshire remains closed southbound between J16 near Crewe and J15 near Stoke-on-Trent due to a serious collision that occurred overnight.
"This is a protracted police closure and the carriageway will remain closed throughout the day for ongoing investigation work at the scene."
A Staffordshire Police spokesman said: "We are at the scene of a serious collision on the M6 southbound just before junction 15.
"The road will be closed for a number of hours while an investigation takes place.
"Please use alternative routes."
National Highways advice to motorists
Road users travelling are advised to follow the Hollow Square diversion symbol on road signs
- Exit the M6 southbound at J16.
- Join the A500 southbound and continue around Stoke-on-Trent on Queensway to then re-join the M6 southbound at J15.
Further information is available from National Highways by visiting www.trafficengland.com and travel apps, or via their regional X feed.
