An 11-year-old child has died following a road traffic collision in Co Down.
Police were called to reports of an collision on Corcreaghan Road, near Kilkeel at around 8am on Tuesday morning.
It is understood that the young boy was taken to hospital but passed away a short time later.
Local DUP MLA Diane Forsythe said the community is heartbroken following the news of the passing of the young child, who she described as “one of the loveliest there are”.
“I am absolutely heartbroken as is the entire local community at this tragic news today,“ she said.
“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.”
Detective Inspector Stewart from the PSNI’s Collision Investigation Unit said: “Police received a report at approximately 8am of a collision involving a car and a child on the Corcreaghan Road.
“Officers attended, alongside our colleagues from partner emergency services. Tragically, the young boy was pronounced deceased a short time later in hospital.
“Detectives are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the collision, and would like to hear from witnesses or anyone who may have captured dash-cam or other footage which could assist with our enquiries.”
An NIAS spokesperson said: “The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service received a 999 call at 08:17 on Tuesday, 3rd February, following reports of an RTC on Corcreaghan Road, Kilkeel.
“NIAS dispatched one Emergency Ambulance and one Rapid Response Paramedic. The Charity Air Ambulance was also tasked to attend.
“Following initial assessment and treatment at the scene, one patient was taken to Daisy Hill Hospital by ambulance.”