Tributes flood in for Maghera woman killed in crash

The employer of a young care worker who died on her way to work yesterday has described her as “a dedicated and caring person”.
Accident victim Leanne DrippsAccident victim Leanne Dripps
Accident victim Leanne Dripps

Leanne Dripps, 23 who was from the Upperlands area of Maghera is understood to have been travelling to work when the accident happened on the Agivey Road in Kilrea at around 8.15am on Thursday morning.

Police said another person was taken to hospital after the collision.

The second person’s injuries are not believed to be life threatening, police said.

A spokeswoman for Optimum Care, of which Leanne was an employee, said they were shocked by the loss.

“We were all devastated to learn today of the untimely death of Leanne Dripps,” the spokeswoman told the News Letter.

“Leanne was a dedicated and caring person with a lively sense of humour and will be deeply missed by colleagues and clients alike.

“At this time we want to extend our sincere condolences to her mother, brother, sister and extended family on their loss. She will be missed by us all.”

Tributes flooded Leanne’s Facebook page just hours after the news broke.

One poster said: “Leanne Dripps you were a wee star” adding that she could not believe she was gone. She was “a brilliant carer and will be deeply missed” by her clients, co-workers, friends and family, she added.

Another added: “I have no words what so ever! Im so lucky to be able to say you were my best friend, our friendship has literally lasted a lifetime.”

Echoing the words of many, one mourner said there were “no words” to describe their shock.

“Completely devastated by the news this morning my heart goes out to all involved you were a star Leanne Dripps,” said another.

Many expressed their shock and disbelief, with one friend describing her as “one of the loveliest girls I have ever met”.

The Agivey Road reopened on Thursday afternoon.

In a family notice in today’s News Letter, Leanne’s family describe her as “the dearly beloved daughter of Margaret and the late Loui, much loved sister of Melvin, Michelle and the late Mandy, dear sister-in-law of Ashley and auntie of Kyle, Kelvin, Callum, Jessica and Alesha”.

The notice added that she is “lovingly remembered by the entire family circle”. Funeral arrangements are to be confirmed.

Police are appeaking for witnesses to come forward.

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