District in shock after crash death

Tributes have been pouring in for ‘popular’ Dromore father-of-four Jim Boyd who was killed following a two vehicle road crash on the Banbridge Road, on Sunday evening.
A man was killed when his car was in collision with another car on Banbridge Road, Dromore. It happened at about 18:00 BST on Sunday © Edward Byrne Photography INB17-231EBA man was killed when his car was in collision with another car on Banbridge Road, Dromore. It happened at about 18:00 BST on Sunday © Edward Byrne Photography INB17-231EB
A man was killed when his car was in collision with another car on Banbridge Road, Dromore. It happened at about 18:00 BST on Sunday © Edward Byrne Photography INB17-231EB

The 54 -year-old, from Drumaghadone Road in Dromore died when his Mercedes car was in collision with a Vauxhall at around 6pm.

It is believed that he and his partner had been heading towards the Half Way House when the accident occurred near the underpass.

The other driver in the accident was not seriously injured.

Jim, a cattle dealer by trade has been described as a ‘much loved father’ of James, Laura, Julie and Mark.

He is also survived by his brothers Wesley, Steven, Brian and Kenneth and sisters Vera and Christine and mother Betty.

His funeral is due to take at the Drumgooland Presbyterian Church outside Banbridge later this week.

Councillor Olive Mercer said, “This was a tragic accident resulting in the sad loss of a life.

“My thoughts and prayers are with Mr Boyd’s family and friends at this time.”

Councillor Paul Rankin described him as ‘well known’ and a popular man who will be sorely missed.

“I would like to take this opportunity to send my sympathies to his entire family circle.” said Mr Rankin. “The community have been left shocked by this awful tragedy.”

Councillor Hazel Gamble, too said that she was saddened by the news.

“I am both shocked and saddened when I heard of this terrible news,” she said. “I would like to offer prayers and sympathy to the family at this very sad time.”

Police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the accident or anyone who was travelling on the Banbridge road around the time of the collision to contact the Collision Investigation Unit at Steeple Police Station or local police at Banbridge on the new non-emergency number 101.

A 42-year-old man was arrested at the scene. He was subsequently released on police bail pending further enquiries. A 52 year old woman also suffered injuries and shock while another three males in the second vehicle were uninjured.

Health Minister Edwin Poots who knew Mr Boyd for over 30 years said, “I was talking to him only last Monday up at the North Coast. “ I am absolutely stunned by what has happened.”

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