11-year-old boy dies following County Down crash
The Corcreaghan Road, outside Kilkeel, was closed for most of Tuesday but has since been reopened
- Published
An 11-year-old boy has died following a road traffic collision in Kilkeel.
Officers responded to an incident involving a car and a child on the Corcreaghan Road at approximately 08:00 GMT on Tuesday.
Detective Inspector Stewart from the Police Service of Northern Ireland's (PSNI) Collision Investigation Unit said: "Officers attended, alongside our colleagues from partner emergency services. Tragically, the young boy was pronounced deceased a short time later in hospital."
The PSNI are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the collision.
Detective Inspector Stewart said police would like to hear from witnesses or anyone who may have captured dash-cam or other footage which could assist with enquiries.
The Corcreaghan Road reopened on Tuesday night.
'Absolutely heartbroken'
Paying tribute to the young boy who died, DUP South Down assembly member Diane Forsythe said she was "absolutely heartbroken, as is the entire local community, at this tragic news today."
"My deepest condolences are with the entire family circle, as well as many friends, the school family, and the wider community, who are firmly in my thoughts and prayers.
"The devastating loss of a child is beyond measure, and this one was one of the loveliest there are."
She added: "So pleasant, so full of life, it's just so tragic... the entire community are certainly rallying around and thinking so much of the family."
SDLP MLA Colin McGrath described the death as a "heartbreaking tragedy" and said the local community was "shocked and deeply saddened".
"Losing a loved one is never easy, but the loss of a young life in these circumstances is unimaginable," McGrath said.