‘Profound loss’ as driver killed in school bus crash with tributes paid to ‘respected’ man after 40 kids escape unharmed

TOUCHING tributes have been paid to a school bus driver who lost his life in a crash in Co Armagh.

The bus was carrying around 40 children who were unharmed in the incident which occurred at around 3.45pm yesterday afternoon.

The Ambulance service described the crash on Tullyagh Road in Belleeks as a “significant incident”.

Pictures showed the school bus just off the road on its side.

Quinn Coaches, who operated the bus, said the driver was a “respected member” of their team and will be missed.

They said on social media: “We are deeply saddened to confirm that one of our drivers was involved in a road traffic accident whilst transporting school children today.

“Despite immediate emergency response, our dear colleague sadly passed away.

“Our first thoughts are with his family, friends, and fellow colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.

“He was a respected and experienced member of our team, and he will be greatly missed.

“We are relieved to confirm that no children were injured during the incident.

“The safety and wellbeing of our drivers and passengers is always our highest priority.

“We are fully cooperating with the relevant authorities as part of standard procedure.

“We kindly ask that the privacy of the driver’s family and the school community be respected at this time.”

Justin McNulty, Newry and Armagh SDLP MLA, added that he was praying for the family of the deceased driver.

Ulster Unionist Party Leader Jon Burrows MLA also paid tribute adding: “I want to offer my sincere condolences following the death of the school bus driver who tragically lost his life outside Bessbrook.

“This is a profound loss for his family, for St Paul’s High School, and for the wider community. May his memory be a blessing.”

At least five ambulances attended the scene, along with fire appliances and the PSNI.

Over 40 children from St Paul’s High School were understood to be on board.

The principal of St Paul’s confirmed the kids are safe and have been picked up by their parents.

Daithi Murray said in a letter that the crash would have caused “significant shock” to the pupils and encouraged them “if they feel well enough” to go to school tomorrow where “staff will signpost them to the support services available”.

He concluded: “The thoughts and prayers of the St Paul’s community are extended to everyone affected by this serious incident today.”

The road was closed for a short period but has since re-opened.