A pedestrian has died after being hit by a car on the M57 motorway during rush hour.
Emergency services were called to the scene on the northbound carriageway, close to Switch Island, shortly after 6pm to reports of a collision.
Huge road closures were quickly put in place as an investigation was launched at the scene and police officers worked to establish the circumstances of the incident.
A spokesperson for Merseyside Police has now confirmed that the pedestrian involved has died at the scene.
On Twitter they also confirmed that the motorway in both directions is expected to remain closed until at least Saturday morning.
Earlier in the evening, the force said in a statement: “We can confirm that emergency services are on the scene of a serious road traffic collision on the M57 today, Friday 1 November.
“At around 6.15pm, reports were received of a collision between a pedestrian and a vehicle near to the northbound junction for Switch Island.
“Officers are on the scene as we look to establish the full circumstances.
“A road closure will be in place both northbound and southbound between Junction 6 for Kirkby and Junction 7 for Switch Island for a considerable time and road users are asked to avoid the area while the investigation is carried out.
“Further updates will be issued when appropriate.”Shortly before 9pm, the force then confirmed the tragic death on Twitter.
The tweet said: “Motorists please be aware that the #M57 is expected to remain closed until at least tomorrow morning (Sat) following a fatal collision near Switch Island earlier this evening.
“We would like to thank everyone for their patience while enquiries are carried out.”Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident is asked to contact @MerPolCC or 101 with reference 843.
