POLICE have described an overnight collision in Co. Armagh in which four people died as 'an unspeakable tragedy'.
The single-vehicle collision involving a grey Volkswagen Golf occurred on the Ballynahonemore Road at around 2.10am on Sunday.
The driver and three passengers, who as yet have not been formally identified, were declared deceased at the scene.
In a separate incident, a pedestrian died following a collision involving a Nissan car on the Forkhill Road in Newry at around 10.40pm on Saturday.
The man, aged in his 40s, was taken to hospital but died from his injuries a short time later.
The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club go out to all those affected by the tragic accident which occured on Ballinahonemore Road adjacent to Holm Park, in which 4 young people sadly lost their lives in the early hours of this morning.
— Armagh City FC (@armaghcityfc) March 24, 2024
First Minister Michelle O'Neill said her thoughts were with the families affected following the 'awful tragedies'.
"It's heartbreaking to learn of the tragic loss of five lives in devastating road accidents in Armagh and Newry," she posted on social media.
"My heart goes out to the families, friends, and the local communities affected by these awful tragedies.
"They are all in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time."
'Terrible tragedy'
Addressing the Armagh collision, SDLP councillor Thomas O'Hanlon said the community was reeling from the news.
"Absolutely heartbreaking news that four young people have lost their lives in a tragic accident on the Ballynahonemore Road, Armagh in the early hours of this morning," he said.
"What was a normal Saturday night for a group of friends has ended in such a terrible tragedy.
“This news has left four different families devastated, communities brokenhearted and the wider area just stunned.
"Our hearts go out to all involved including those in our emergency services who attended the scene.
"Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with all the families involved both now and in the days and months ahead."
Investigation
District Commander Superintendent Paul McGrattan revealed a 'thorough and sensitive investigation' was underway into the Armagh incident.
"This is an unspeakable tragedy for the families involved, and for the wider community, who will understandably struggle to comprehend such loss of life," he said.
"A thorough and sensitive investigation is now underway and anyone with information that could assist us is asked to get in touch with the Collision Investigation Unit.
"Police remain at the scene at present and the Ballynahonemore Road will be closed for most of the day.
"The thoughts of the entire Police Service are with the families, friends and loved ones of those who have lost their lives."
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Collision Investigation Unit on 101.
Inquiries into the separate Newry collision are ongoing.
Investigators have appealed for witnesses or anyone with camera footage to contact them on 101, quoting reference 1661 of March 23.
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