Overview
- A 3,300lb device hidden in a white Ford Cargo van detonated on 15 June 1996 on Corporation Street, injuring about 200–220 people and causing roughly £700 million in damage while mass evacuation prevented any fatalities.
- Police and Army bomb‑disposal teams used a remote robot and staged small blast during defusing attempts, but the main device exploded at about 11:17am after those efforts failed.
- Counter Terrorism Policing North West announced in June 2026 that investigative opportunities have been exhausted; detectives say one suspect was arrested and released in 2022 and a second man died before he could be questioned.
- Survivors and families marked the 30th anniversary with services at Manchester Cathedral where witnesses recounted lasting trauma, urged better recognition and were signposted to Troubles‑related support and disability payments.
- The blast accelerated a decades‑long programme of public and private rebuilding that reshaped Manchester city centre, though civic leaders stress the attack caused deep harm and should not be framed as a benefit to the city.