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25th March 2024
09:58am GMT
Four young friends, all aged in their 20s, have died after being involved in a road crash in Co. Armagh on Sunday, March 25.
The crash victims have been named locally as Marina Crilly, Emma Mallon, Phil Mitchell and Keith Morrison.
All four people, travelling in a grey Volkswagen Golf, were involved in a single-vehicle accident, where it is believed the vehicle struck a tree on the Ballynahonemore Road at around 2.10am on Sunday morning.
All four reportedly died instantly.
It is understood that one of the victims, Ms Crilly, is survived by her young son, mother, and two brothers.
Police remained at the scene yesterday and they are expected to continue their investigations of the scene today.
First Minister Michelle O'Neill commented on the "heartbreaking" incident.
"It’s heartbreaking to learn of the tragic loss of five lives in devastating road accidents in Armagh and Newry," she said in a statement online.
"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."
It’s heartbreaking to learn of the tragic loss of five lives in devastating road accidents in Armagh and Newry.
— Michelle O’Neill (@moneillsf) March 24, 2024
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…
Speaking to BBC Radio Ulster, DUP MLA Willian Irwin said the incident was "most parents' worst nightmare".
"Four young people have lost their lives. My thoughts and my prayers are with the families at this time.
"It is most parents’ worst nightmares to get dreadful news that they’ve lost a child."
District Commander Superintendent Paul McGrattan said: "This is an unspeakable tragedy for the families involved, and for the wider community, who will understandably struggle to comprehend such loss of life.
"The thoughts of the entire police service are with the families, friends and loved ones of those who have lost their lives."
