A serious road accident in Co Armagh has ended in “unimaginable tragedy”, a local councillor has said.
The two vehicle collision happened on the Killylea Road shortly before 1pm yesterday.
The road was closed for most of the day but has since reopened.
No details of the casualties have been confirmed by the PSNI, however, the Mayor of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon council said there have been fatalities.
Sarah Duffy said it was a “very sad time” for the area.
“This Christmas season, which is meant to bring families together in joy and celebration, has been overshadowed by an unimaginable tragedy in our community,” she said.
“Today, we mourn the heartbreaking loss of lives due to a devastating road traffic collision.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends who are facing this pain, especially at this time of year. We cannot begin to comprehend the depth of their loss, and we stand with them in their grief.
“I want to thank the emergency services, who responded swiftly and with immense professionalism under these difficult circumstances.”
She added: “As a community, we will come together to support those affected in the very sad times ahead”.
Some of those affected are from the local area.
Fire crews and the NI Ambulance Service were sent to the scene.
One local said: “A large number of emergency vehicles responded to the accident.
“Everybody’s prayers are with those involved. There is a lot of shock at what has happened.”
Traffic was diverted through Killylea village after the accident.
The accident happened close to a bend in the road, about six miles from Armagh city, between the city and Caledon.
In an overnight update, the PSNI said: “The Killylea Road, outside Killylea, which was closed following a serious road traffic collision in the area yesterday afternoon has now reopened. An update will follow in due course.”