Rugby star Nevin Spence, 22, dies, along with father and brother, in farm accident

Daughter and sister, Emma, was released from hosptial earlier today.

A promising young star, Nevin, 22, played at centre for Ulster and was called up to the Ireland training squad for the Six Nations last year.

The former Dromore High School and Wallace High School player made his first appearance for Ulster against Ospreys in April 2010. He played for the Ulster Ravens against Munster A at Deramore on Friday.

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Emergency crews went to the family farm in Drumlough Road outside Hillsborough shortly after 6pm on Saturday following reports that four people had fallen into the slurry pit.

It is understood that Graham had fallen in while attempting to pull his father out of the tank. Nevin and Emma then attempted to mount a rescue effort but ended up being drawn into the tank themselves.

Two of the men were declared dead at the scene but rescue workers managed to pull a man and a woman from the tanker.

The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) said it responded to a 999 call at about 6.15pm following reports that at least three people had fallen into a slurry tank.

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It said it immediately sent three rapid response paramedics, four accident and emergency vehicles and an ambulance service doctor to the scene.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service also attended and rescued four people from the slurry pit.

“Three were unconscious and NIAS paramedics commenced resuscitation efforts immediately assisted by other ambulance personnel,” said a NIAS spokesperson.

“One of the four showed initial signs of responding to the efforts of the crews and was transported immediately to the nearby Lagan Valley Hospital, where unfortunately he died a short time later.

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“Despite the best efforts of all involved the other two men died at the scene.

“A female was treated at the scene and taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital where she is recovering from the effects of fume inhalation.”

The ambulance service said it extended its sympathies to those involved.