Town stunned as two die in Ballycastle collision

A man named locally as Johnny Black, 19, died and seven others were taken to hospital after a head on collision between two cars on the Cushendall Road.

A 26-year-old man died in hospital as a result of his injuries on Monday. Two women remain in a critical condition in the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast.

Inspector Mick Wood is continuing to appeal for anyone who witnessed the collision or anyone who was travelling on the Cushendall Road at the time of the collision to contact the Collision Investigation Unit or local Police in Ballycastle on the non-emergency number 101.

Independent Councillor Padraig McShane reflected the shock and sorrow felt by the local community when he said: “Young Johnny Black was an extremely popular lad among his peers. He would drive lorries the length and breadth of Ireland. To lose his life in this manner has left the area reeling this morning.”

Councillor McShane, who is a family friend of one of those critically injured continued, “Those who had the task of responding to the scene are in shock. All our thoughts and prayers are with those caught up in the accident on the Cushendall Road.”

SDLP councillor Margaret Anne McKillop has said that the accident has sent shockwaves through the community.

Cllr McKillop said: “This is absolutely tragic news. Over the Easter weekend, people were out to enjoy themselves with friends and family. Today one family has been torn apart in the most devastating circumstances.

“The young man who lost his life would have been known to many in this community. I want to extend my thoughts and prayers to his family at this very difficult time.

“The young man’s family and friends, as well as the others injured in this terrible accident will need the support of everyone in the local community. I have no doubt we will all rally around them in this time of need.”

The former chairman of Moyle District Council, Donal Cunningham said: “I was shocked and devastated to hear the news this morning. This is tragic news that has deeply shaken the local community.”

Mr Cunningham described the young man as very popular within the local area, he had many friends and the young people are just totally numbed by this.

“I want to extend my sympathies to his family and friends at this extremely difficult time”