Jordan Nixon and Connor McGrugan road deaths: PSNI respond to news that road deaths have more than doubled since this time last year

Their deaths take the numbers of deaths on NI roads this year so far to 24. In the same period last year only 10 people had been killed, and only 15 in 2021.

Asked why they thought the figures were so much worse this year, the PSNI suggested that longer hours of daylight may be a factor.

Chief Superintendent Sam Donaldson said: “Tragically, 24 people have already lost their lives on our roads this year. That is 14 more compared to the same time period last year.

“I am asking everyone to stop and think about this figure for a moment. These figures are not just statistics.

"Every time you hear about a fatal or serious collision on the news, there is a family, a circle of friends, a community plunged into mourning. Many more people have suffered serious and sometimes life-changing injuries.“With longer hours of daylight, more people are out and about, pedestrians, cyclists and all other road users. It’s also a busy time for farms, with more agricultural machinery on the move.”

He urged road users to look out for increased numbers of pedestrians on the roads, and similarly, urged pedestrians not to be distracted by friends or mobiles. On country roads they should walk against the flow of traffic and wear high visibility clothing, he added.

Motorcyclists must check their machines and safety equipment and ride defensively, he said, while drivers must in term be alert for bikers, especially at junctions.

“All other road users, particularly those using country roads, need to ensure they drive at an appropriate speed to cope with farm vehicles. Please take extra care and patience to reduce risk by not making dangerous overtaking manoeuvres,” he added.Mr Nixon's funeral takes place at noon on 16 May at All Saint’s Parish Church, Eglantine Road, Lisburn.

Mr McGrugan’s funeral will be in Lylehill Presbyterian Church, Ballyclare, on 17 May at 10.30am.