By Ruairi Scott Byrne

Copyright irishmirror

A young man was killed and three others were rushed to hospital following a two-vehicle road traffic collision in Co Down on Monday.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) received a report at approximately 2pm of a collision involving a silver VW Bora and grey Toyota Avensis on the Ballydugan Road in Downpatrick.

Officers attended the scene, alongside members from other emergency services including five Emergency Ambulance crews, one Paramedic, one Ambulance Officer andone Hazardous Area Response Team.

Sadly, the driver of the VW Bora, a man aged in his 20s, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The passenger of the same vehicle, a man also aged in his 20s, was seriously injured in the collision, and remains in hospital at this time.

Two women who were travelling in the Toyota Avensis were also rushed by ambulance to Royal Victoria Hospital for treatment.

The road which was closed for a time in order to facilitate emergency services, has now fully reopened.

A PSNI spokesperson confirmed that an investigation to establish the circumstances of what happened is ongoing.

“The Collision Investigation Unit is appealing to anyone who may have any information which could assist, or was travelling in the area at the time and captured any dash-cam or mobile phone footage, to get in touch on 101, quoting reference number 760 15/09/25,” said Inspector Cherith Adair from the Police Service’s Collision Investigation Unit.

Alternatively, you can submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.

Newry Mourne and Down Councillor Alan Lewis has said he is “saddened to learn of tragic death” on Ballydugan Road.

“My heartfelt sympathies and condolences go to the family and loved ones of the person who has lost their life,” he said.

“The sudden loss of life on our roads is always a profound shock, leaving a lasting impact on families and on the wider community.

“In times of such sorrow, I know that the warmth, comfort, and support of our community will be a source of strength to those who are grieving.

“I want to pay tribute to the emergency services for their quick and professional response at the scene.

“Their tireless work in the most difficult of circumstances deserves our recognition and gratitude.

“I also want to commend local residents who live nearby and who offered immediate assistance and support, their actions embody the very best of community spirit.

“My thoughts and prayers remain with all those affected by this tragic incident.”

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