Coach carrying Manchester City fans catches fire on M6 Toll
A double-decker coach operated by Ridley’s burst into flames on the M6 Toll this morning while transporting Manchester City supporters to the Carabao Cup final at Wembley, reports BritPanorama.
The vehicle ignited near junction three in the West Midlands, inciting dramatic footage showing bright orange flames engulfing the coach and thick smoke billowing into the sky. Emergency services were dispatched promptly to tackle the blaze, closing the southbound carriageway between junctions T4 at Weeford and T2 at Coleshill.
Traffic was halted entirely as fire crews worked to control the situation, with onlookers gathering on a nearby hillside to witness the unfolding scene. Thankfully, Ridley’s coaches confirmed that all passengers and the driver were evacuated safely, sustaining no injuries.
“All passengers and the driver were safely evacuated with no injuries. We are grateful to the emergency services for their swift response,” a spokesperson for Ridley’s stated. Furthermore, the company indicated that fans were transferred to replacement coaches to continue their journey to the stadium.
Witnesses noted that supporters waited on the grass verge beside the motorway while firefighters battled the flames. Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service, along with National Highways Traffic Officers, assisted in managing the disruption, which involved a significant response due to the fire’s intensity.
Images from the scene reveal that the coach suffered severe damage, with flames visible from the windscreen during the peak of the fire. National Highways reported that normal traffic conditions were anticipated to resume between 1:30 pm and 1:45 pm, with diversions established for affected motorists.
Further disruption for supporters also arose from a collision on the M1, which led to gridlocked conditions approximately 1.9 miles from the Wembley exit. This pile-up hindered some City fans from leaving at Junction 1 to access the A406 North Circular towards the stadium.
As Manchester City prepares to face Arsenal at 4:30 pm, approximately 90,000 supporters are expected to fill Wembley for this highly anticipated clash, with both Premier League sides vying for the first trophy of the campaign.
In instances like these, one often reflects on how the passion for football can collide unceremoniously with the unpredictability of travel. Today’s events serve as a reminder of the resilience required not just on the pitch, but also in navigating the journey to support one’s team.
