The PSNI confirmed that three people were killed and five were injured in road collision in Cookstown, Co Tyrone on December 26.RollingNews.ie

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said in a statement on Monday, December 26 that the road traffic collision in Cookstown, Co Tyrone resulted in three fatalities.

Chief Superintendent Gerard Pollock said: “Officers, along with colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service attended a two-vehicle collision in the Dungannon Road shortly after 3:30 pm.

“The drivers of the vehicles, a woman in her 80s and a man in his 20s, tragically died as a result of the collision along with a woman in her 50s who was a passenger in one of the vehicles. 

“Four children and a woman in her 20s were taken to hospital, where they remain.”

Pollock added: “An investigation led by specialist investigators from the Collisions Investigation Unit has been commenced and I am appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time who may have witnessed the collision or who has dash-cam footage or any other information to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 957 as of 26/12/2022. You can also report online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.

A spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) said: "Following assessment and initial treatment at the scene, four patients were taken to Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children and another patient was taken by ambulance to the Royal Victoria Hospital."

Politicians across Northern Ireland offered their sympathies upon the tragedy.

SDLP Mid Ulster MLA Patsy McGlone told PA: “The community is devastated this evening following news of a fatal collision on the Dungannon Road.

“This is the worst possible news any family could receive but particularly at this time of year.

“My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected at this incredibly difficult time.”

Michelle O'Neill, the vice president of Sinn Féin, offered her heartfelt sympathies:

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, head of the DUP, said his thoughts and prayers are with the families impacted by the loss:

Doug Beattie, leader of the UUP, said "life is so precious and so fragile:"