Sorrow after Killylea Road tragedy

A COMMUNITY has been left in shock and sorrow after two men died in a horrific road traffic collision on the Killylea Road just outside the county Armagh village.

Police confirmed the sad news yesterday (Saturday), stating that four other people had been inured in the crash, one of them a baby.

A woman among the injured was said to be in a critical condition.

Inspector Cherith Adair, from the PSNI’s Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Police received a report shortly before 12:45pm on Friday, 27th December, of a collision involving a dark grey Audi and a black Mercedes.

“Officers attended, alongside our colleagues from partner emergency services. Both men died at the scene. Four others, including a baby, were taken to hospital for medical treatment.

“One of the women sustained serious injuries and remains in hospital in a critical condition at this time.

“The Killylea Road, which was closed for a period of time, has now fully reopened.

“Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating the circumstances of the collision, and would like to hear from witnesses or anyone who may have captured dash-cam or other footage which could assist with our enquiries. You can call 101 and quote reference 740 of 27/12/24 or report online at http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/."

Mayor of Armagh Banbridge & Craigavon Council, Cllr Sarah Duffy said, “This Christmas season, which is meant to bring families together in joy and celebration, has been overshadowed by an unimaginable tragedy in our community. Today, we mourn the heartbreaking loss of lives due to a devastating road traffic collision.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends who are facing this pain, especially at this time of year. We cannot begin to comprehend the depth of their loss, and we stand with them in their grief.

“I want to thank the emergency services, who responded swiftly and with immense professionalism under these difficult circumstances.

“This tragedy is a stark reminder of the importance of road safety, especially during the holiday season when our roads are often busier. I urge everyone to take extra care, whether driving, cycling, or walking, and to ensure that we protect ourselves and those around us.

“As a community, we will come together to support those affected in the very sad times ahead.”

Newry & Armagh DUP Assemblyman William Irwin MLA said, “This is an absolute tragedy and I send my deepest sympathy, condolences and prayers to the wider family circle at this very difficult and terrible time of loss.”

He continued, “Once again a road accident has dealt a horrific blow to a family at a time of year when we gather with our families to celebrate the Christmas and New Year period.

“It really is hard to find the words to describe what the wider family must be feeling at this time and I send my best wishes for those involved in this collision who remain in hospital receiving treatment and hope and pray they make a full recovery.”