Over 20 emergency response vehicles were in attendance at the two car crash.
Both cars looked extensively damaged, and one person was cut out of a car by the fire service’s specialist technical rescue team.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “At around 7pm this evening (Saturday, 22nd June), firefighters were called to reports of a crash on St Helens Road in Bolton.
“Two fire engines from Farnworth and Hindley fire stations quickly arrived at the scene, which involved two vehicles.
“Firefighters cut one casualty free from their vehicle.
“Three other casualties had self rescued before the arrival of the fire service and were transferred to the care of North West Ambulance Service and conveyed to hospital
“Crews remain at the scene.”
Fire engines, police cars, ambulances, and air ambulances were scrambled to the scene and the road was cordoned off.
The accident happened close to Asda.
Cars parked in Asda car park were unable to leave as emergency services worked.
One bus was stuck within the cordon and later released.
One witness has said he saw someone being cut out of a car.
He said: “One man is being cut out of a car with the tech rescue crew.
“A firefighter has described it as a ‘lifesaving’ operation.
An off-licence adjacent claimed to have heard it while inside their own establishment.
“We didn’t see it as we were inside,” the company owner remarked.
“However, we heard it. We are saddened by what we have witnessed, but not shocked that it has occurred here. It is just terrible.
Accidents happen frequently, but I’d rather not know why.
“It’s clear how terrible this was, and someone could have suffered severe injuries.
“We are just hoping everyone is okay, but we will see now.”
The road came to a halt and many passengers were made to wait while those who witnessed the collision assisted in directing traffic.
An Asda customer stated: “They stopped traffic and trapped the bus.”
“No one was allowed to leave the Asda parking lot and go anyplace.
“I’ve never seen so many emergency vehicles in one location, so it’s clear that this collision is really serious.
“I hope everyone is doing well today; that is my hope for everyone concerned.
“I can’t see too much from here but it is gut-wrenching isn’t it, when you see things like this?”
We’ve reached out to Greater Manchester Police for a response.
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