Retired among three fatalities after Boxing Day horror incident in Koh Tyrone

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Retired is among three adults killed in a horrific two-car crash in Co Teron.

The woman, aged 80, was driving one of the vehicles involved in the collision which occurred shortly before 3:30pm on Dungannon Road in Cookstown on Monday.

The driver of the other car, who was in his twenties, also died.

The third victim – a woman in her fifties – was a passenger in one of the cars.

Another woman in her 20s and four children were injured in the collision and are being treated in hospital.

PSNI director Gerard Bullock said the investigation was being carried out by specialist investigators from the crash investigations unit.

He added, “I appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time who may have witnessed the collision or has dash cam footage or any other information to contact the police at 101 quoting reference number 957 on 12/26/22.” .

Designate First Minister Michelle O’Neill offered her “heartfelt condolences” to the families of all those killed and injured.

It is understood that two of the deceased were traveling with four children on a person carrier and the third in the second car.

The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service deployed two rapid response teams and a number of emergency crews after receiving a 999 call at 3.29pm.

She also confirmed that an air ambulance was dispatched to the scene.

A hospital spokesperson said: “Following initial assessment and treatment at the scene, four patients were taken to the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children and another patient was taken by ambulance to RVH.”

A woman was also taken by ambulance to the Royal Victoria Hospital.

“It is understood that she suffered non-life-threatening injuries.”

Much of the road between Dungannon and Cookstown has been closed and is likely to remain blockaded for some time.

Forensic officers are at the scene trying to find out the cause of the crash.

Ms O’Neill said: “It is extremely tragic news to learn that three adults were killed and one woman and four children injured as a result of this horrific traffic collision in Co Teron.

“I offer my heartfelt sympathy to the families of those so tragically killed and wish those injured a full and speedy recovery.”

SDLP MLA Patsy McGlone has expressed her shock at the aftermath of the incident.

“The community has been devastated this evening after news of a fatal crash on the Dungannon Road,” he said.

“This is the worst news any family can receive but especially at this time of year.

“My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected at this incredibly difficult time.”

Linda Dillon also offered her condolences to all who mourned.

“There is shock and sadness in the community to learn that three people were killed and several others injured in a road accident between Cookstown and Dungannon today,” she said.

“My immediate thoughts are with the families and friends of everyone who was killed and injured in this tragic accident.”

Union leader Doug Beatty described the incident as “heartbreaking news the day after Christmas”.

He wrote on Twitter: “I cannot imagine the horror the survivors endured and the spectacle the emergency services faced.”

Life is so precious and so fragile.

“My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.”

Meanwhile, the M1 motorway remains closed in both directions between Junction 15 in Dungannon and Junction 14 in Tamnamore after a separate incident on Monday.

No other details at present.

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