Driver arrested as Piccadilly Gardens bus crash leaves woman fighting for life

A driver has been arrested and a woman is left fighting for her life in hospital after a bus crashed into a shop front next to Piccadilly Gardens yesterday afternoon.

Twelve people, both pedestrians and passengers, were injured in the incident, which happened at around 1pm on Monday, October 16th.

The single-decker Diamond bus mounted the kerb and crashed through the front of the T4 bubble tea cafe, at the bottom of the City Tower building.

Greater Manchester Police have confirmed the driver, a 64-year-old man, has been arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and is being questioned in custody.

The force said one woman was rushed to hospital after suffering life-threatening injuries in the collision.

In total, twelve people were injured during the incident, with others involved sustaining minor injuries, police say.

All emergency services were in attendance and screens were immediately erected while casualties were treated. A cordon remained in place throughout the day and road closures were put in place.

The force are now appealing for witnesses to come forward as they continue to investigate what happened.

In a statement, GMP said: “Emergency services attended the scene, and it has been established that 12 people have been injured as a result with one woman in a life-threatening condition and is receiving treatment at hospital.

“Others involved are believed to be in a stable condition with minor injuries. The driver, a 64-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

“Greater Manchester Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit are continuing to investigate and are appealing for witnesses.

“Anyone with information that may help with enquiries, including footage filmed, is asked to call 0161 856 474 quoting incident 1673 of 16/10/2023.”