Syrian dad-of-four dies cycling to work in Lisburn

The father-of-four, a highly qualified professional in his own country, arrived in Northern Ireland a year ago and took up work in a Lisburn factory to support his family.

Police said he the man, in his forties, died following a collision with a lorry on the Knockmore Road at 2.25pm on Wednesday.

UUP councillor Robbie Butler said the deceased was a friend of his family.

“I would like to express my deepest sympathy,” he said. “Situations like this can bring tremendous emotional, financial and practical burdens. I am sure the community will rally around at this time.”

He would be happy to act as contact for anyone offering support, he said.

DUP MLA Paul Givan has lobbied three Stormont ministers for the junction in question to be upgraded.

“This may well have saved this life, but we will never know,” he said.

A Roads Service spokeswoman offered “sincere sympathies” to the family. “It would be inappropriate to speculate on the cause of this tragic accident until the matter is fully investigated,” she added.