Community in Mourning After Fatal Bolton Collision
A devastating head-on collision in Bolton in the early hours of Sunday, 11 January 2026, has claimed the lives of four people, including three teenagers. The incident occurred on Wigan Road and involved a red Seat Leon and a Citroen C4 Picasso taxi.
Victims Named Following Tragic Incident
The three young men in the Seat Leon, all believed to be aged between 18 and 19, have been named locally by the Bolton Council of Mosques (BCoM). They are Mohammed Jibrael Mukhtar, Farhan Patel and Muhammad Danyaal Asghar Ali. The taxi driver, named locally as Mosrab Ali and believed to be in his 50s, also died at the scene.
All four victims were declared dead following the collision, which happened at around 12.50am. Five other passengers were injured and taken to hospital for treatment, according to Greater Manchester Police (GMP).
Emergency Services Face "Challenging" Scene
GMP Chief Inspector Helen McCormick described the incident as "devastating", noting the crash scene was "particularly challenging" for emergency crews. Firefighters from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service used cutting equipment to free those trapped in the vehicles.
A spokesperson for the fire service confirmed three fire engines and a technical response unit attended, with crews working for roughly two hours to make the area safe. Footage from a nearby property, shared online, showed the moment of the head-on impact, with debris scattered across the road.
Community Leaders Appeal for Calm and Privacy
Local councillor Ayyub Patel told Sky News the "incredibly tragic incident" had left the whole community "devastated". He offered heartfelt condolences to the families and asked people to avoid speculation while the investigation continues.
The Bolton Council of Mosques issued a statement confirming it is supporting the bereaved families and liaising with authorities. They asked for prayers for the deceased and for the families to be given privacy during this difficult time.
GMP's Serious Collision Investigation Unit has launched a probe and is appealing for witnesses, dashcam, or CCTV footage. A scene remains in place on Wigan Road as inquiries continue.
