Father-of-two who died in Co Antrim road crash branded a ‘legend’ as tributes paid

Connor McNeill, 41, from the Glenarm area, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash in Broughshane village shortly before 3.30pm on Tuesday.

He was described as an avid football fan and his local club, Carnlough Swifts, paid tribute to him online.

“It is with a very heavy heart that we announce we have lost a Swifts legend, a good friend, a daddy, a husband, an uncle, a brother and a son,” a statement read.

“Connor McNeill was tragically taken from us yesterday in a car accident.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - May 8th

“Our deepest sympathy goes to Connor’s two beautiful children, Lucy and Ollie, and his wife Emma.

“Also to his father Hugh, brothers Mark, Seamus, Dan and Hugh Pat and his sister Annette and also to the wider McNeill family.”

The Carnlough Swifts thanked Connor for all the support he provided the team with over the years.

“Connor was a legend with the Swifts and was an integral part of every trophy won in the last 15 years.

“Everyone in the village and surrounding area will miss Connor’s personality, warmth and sporting opinion.”

Sinn Féin MLA Philip McGuigan said the community has been left “heartbroken” by his tragic death.

“It’s tragic to learn that a man has been killed in a road traffic collision near Broughshane and my thoughts are with his family and friends,” he said.

“The local community of Glenarm and further afield have been left heartbroken by this accident and will rally around to support the family in what will be difficult days to come.

“I also want to pay tribute to the emergency services for all their efforts and for attending the scene.”

Connor was driving a grey Nissan X-Trail on the Carnlough Road when it left the carriageway shortly before 3.30pm on Tuesday.

Two young children, both passengers in the car, were taken to hospital where they remain receiving treatment for injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening.

PSNI Collision Investigation Unit Inspector Adair said: “Carnlough Road was closed for a number of hours following the collision and has now re-opened.

"An investigation is underway and I would ask anyone travelling in the area at the time of the collision to review any dash-cam footage they may have captured and make contact with the PSNI Collision Investigation Unit at Sprucefield by calling 101, quoting reference number 1089 07/05/24.”