POLICE closed the M62 after a man fell 120ft to his death from the landmark motorway bridge at Scammonden.
The motorway was closed eastbound between junctions 22 and 24 for several hours after the incident just before 1pm on Saturday.
It is understand the man was struck by cars after landing on the carriageway.
Insp Michael Green, from West Yorkshire Police said: “This was a very distressing and tragic incident.
“Although we have a strong indication of the identity of the deceased adult male, we will not be able to confirm his identity until coroner’s officers have spoken to the coroner on Monday.’’
Insp Green confirmed it was believed the man had fallen from the bridge and there were not thought to be any suspicious circumstances.
The eastbound carriageway did not re-open until 5.15pm as police fully investigated the tragedy.
The road across the bridge was also sealed off and guarded by police patrols.
Tailbacks stretched back for miles and motorists were sent on a diversion onto the A58 through Calderdale, rejoining the motorway at junction 26, Chain Bar.
Westbound traffic also ground to halt as passing drivers slowed down to look at the scene.
Brown Cow Bridge – also known as Scammonden Bridge – was reputed to be the longest single span bridge in the world when it was built.
The road above the bridge is 660ft long and 120ft above the motorway.
