PSNITwo young people have died following two separate collisions in County Down.
Police said they received a report of “a collision involving a car and a pedestrian” on the West Circular Road in Bangor at about 22:55 BST on Tuesday night.
A 16-year-old girl, Jaidyn Rice, who was from Bangor, died at the scene after being hit by the car.
Police have also said a young boy has died following a collision between a red Skoda Fabia car and a scooter in the Strand area of Portaferry.
‘Remarkable young woman’
In relation to the Bangor crash, police said: “Officers 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.”
The manager of North Down Community Network, Louise Spence, said Ms Rice was a “remarkable young woman”.
Louise Spence said she was “one of our inspirational young leaders; full of hope, potential, wisdom, and joy – a beautiful young person, inside and out.”
Ms Spence described Ms Rice as a “treasured part” of the community network, and said the teenager was “someone we could always count on”.
“We are heartbroken at this very sad loss and are holding her brother Kenley and all of Jaidyn’s family and friends in our thoughts at this difficult time.
“We are so grateful to have known her. She made a difference, and she will not be forgotten.”
Local DUP MLA Stephen Dunne said he was “deeply shocked and saddened” to hear the news.
He said: “This is a devastating loss for our local community and particularly painful given Jaidyn’s young age.
“My thoughts and prayers are with her heartbroken family, friends, and all those who knew and loved her at this incredibly difficult time.”
‘Heartbreaking incident’
Independent North Down MP Alex Easton has said the “heartbreaking incident has left the entire community in mourning” as he sent his support to Ms Rice’s family and friends.
“No words can ease the pain of such a devastating loss, but I want them to know that they are not alone in their grief – the whole community stands with them in love and support,” he added.
Portaferry collision
In Portaferry, the young boy who was riding the scooter involved in the collision was taken to hospital. However, he died as a result of his injuries.
A 51-year-old man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of a number of related offences. He remains in police custody.
The Strand remains closed to traffic at this time.
Police are appealing for witnesses to contact them.
