Tributes to ‘gentle giant’ rugby player, 22, who died in road crash

The crash happened on the Ballybogey Road area of Ballymoney around 6am.

The man who died has been named locally as Mac O’Neill from the Portrush area, a former student of Coleraine Academical Institution who played rugby for Coleraine.

Andrew Hutchinson, president of Coleraine Rugby Football, Cricket and Hockey Club said: “It is with great sadness that the club learnt today of the passing of Mac O’Neill.

“Mac started his rugby career with the mini rugby section of the club before moving to Coleraine Inst where he continued to develop his rugby skills. He came back to the club and made a great impression on the rugby pitch, a pivotal player in the successful Seconds squad.

“He will be remembered as a talented rugby player, the life and soul of the team on and off the pitch. He was a popular and valued member of the club and he will be fondly remembered by all his many friends at the club.”

Mr Hutchinson added: “On behalf of the club I share our condolences with the family at this difficult time.”

In one tribute posted online, Mr O’Neill was described as a “gentle giant”.

DUP MLA and Policing Board member Mervyn Storey said: “Obviously this is an awful tragedy, it really is.

“For a family to eceive this nws today is just devastating, particularly in these circumstances when they are unable to grieve in the way that they normally would.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to them. I know every parent will have this family in their thoughts after hearing that this young fellow has lost his life in this tragic accident.”

He added: “I have no doubt it was a harrowing sight for the emergency services who had to attend the scene and they are in our thoughts as well.”

East Londonderry MLA Claire Sugden also passed on her condolences to the man’s family.

“It’s very sad to hear that a young person has lost their life on our roads.

“My condolences go to all his family, his friends and all who knew him.”

A friend, writing on the Coleraine rugby club’s social media page, said: “What a fun loving young man he was. Always up for the crack and banter. He will be sorely missed. My thoughts are with his family.”

UUP councillor Daryl Wilson said: “I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to all impacted by this awful tragedy.”

PSNI Inspector Mullan said: “Shortly after 6:05am, it was reported that a blue Peugeot 207 was involved in the incident. Tragically, the man died as a result of his injuries at the scene.

“Our enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the collision are continuing.”