Two men have died in a road accident in Co Armagh which has brought “unimaginable tragedy” to the community.
A baby was also among four people injured, police said. One woman is critically ill in hospital.
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.
Some of those affected are from the local area.
Flowers have been left at the scene.
Inspector Cherith Adair, from the Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Police received a report shortly before 12:45pm yesterday, Friday 27th December, of a collision involving a dark grey Audi and a black Mercedes.
“Officers attended, alongside our colleagues from partner emergency services. Both men died at the scene. Four others, including a baby, were taken to hospital for medical treatment.
“One of the women sustained serious injuries and remains in hospital in a critical condition at this time.”
Sarah Duffy, the Mayor of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon council, said it was a “very sad time” for the community.
“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”.
SDLP councillor Thomas O’Hanlon said: “My thoughts and prayers are with those involved in the road traffic accident on the Killylea Road, Armagh yesterday.
“Unfortunately lives have been lost and some remain critically ill in hospital. It’s just terrible for those involved and we keep those hurt and those mourning in our prayers.”
Fire crews and the NI Ambulance Service were sent to the scene yesterday.
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 incident.
The accident happened close to a bend in the road, about six miles from Armagh city, on the road heading to Caledon.
More to follow