A 17-year-old girl has died in a single vehicle collision on the Coolmillish Road, Markethill earlier today (Thursday).
The collision involved a blue Ford Fiesta.
The incident happened on the Coolmillish Road at around lunchtime.
Emergency services had attended the scene and the road was closed in both directions.
A spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service said a 999 call had been received at 12.56pm today.
It came after reports of a one-vehicle collision.
The spokesperson told Armagh I : “NIAS despatched two emergency crews and one rapid response paramedic to the scene.
“The charity Air Ambulance with HEMs crew on board was also tasked to the incident.
“Following assessment and initial treatment at the scene, no-one was taken to hospital.”
Police meanwhile are appealing for witnesses.
A spokesperson said: “Officers investigating the collision are appealing for any witnesses or anyone who may have recorded dash-cam footage in the area to please make contact by calling 101, quoting reference 833 24/09/20.”
Commenting, DUP William Irwin MLA stated: “This is very sad and tragic news and my thoughts and prayers are with family of the young lady who has lost her life.
“The Coolmillish Road is a very twisty section of road way and it is not clear at this time how the vehicle left the road.
“The fact that a young person of 17 years old has lost their life is such devastating news for any family to receive and it is important that the community rallies round them and supports them in their grief.”
Ulster Unionist Councillor Jim Speers added: “This is very sad news emerging this evening, regarding a road traffic accident outside Markethill. I extend my deepest sympathy to the bereaved family.
“This is an absolute tragedy and heartbreaking news for any family. My thoughts and prayers to the family and the entire community at this time.”
Markethill Ulster Unionist Councillor Gordon Kennedy has expressed his sympathies to the family.
Councillor Kennedy said: “The news that a 17-year-old girl has lost her life in this car accident is devastating. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.
“I know the family well as they are neighbours of mine and it’s an absolute tragedy.
“My thoughts are also with those members of the public who helped at the scene. They and members of the emergency services did all they could to save her life.
“The local community will be thinking and praying for all those involved and their families.”
Independent Unionist Councillor Paul Berry said: “The sudden and tragic death of Rachael has sent shock waves of grief and sadness across the local Community but also Northern Ireland.
“The death of anyone on our roads is very sad but someone local and so young and talented is even more tragic.
“My heartfelt thoughts and prayers go to the family and close friends of Rachael at this very deep time of grief and sorrow.”
