‘An unimaginable loss’ – Heartbreaking tributes pour for ‘devoted daddy & husband’ killed in crash as kids hospitalised
HEARTBREAKING tributes have poured in for a "loving husband" and "devoted daddy" who was killed in a crash on Tuesday.
Connor McNeill was sadly pronounced dead at the scene in Co Antrim and his two young children, who were passengers in the car, were rushed to hospital after the crash.
Their injuries are believed to be non life-threatening.
The 41-year-old, from the Glenarm area, was driving a grey Nissan X-Trail on the Carnlough Road near Broughshane when it left the carriageway shortly before 3:30pm.
Tragic Connor has been fondly remembered as a "gentle giant" with a "heart of pure gold" that "won't be forgotten" by devastated mourners as news of the communities loss continues to spread.
In a notice online, he was remembered as the "loving husband of Emma and devoted daddy of Lucy and Ollie."
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It reads: "Dearly beloved son of Hugh and the late Margaret, and dear brother of Mark, Seamus, Daniel, Annette (Campbell) and Hugh Pat. Son-in-law of Brian and Lillian Boyd.
"Deeply regretted by his sorrowing wife, family and family circle."
It is understood that the father-of-two was due to go on holiday with his family this week.
Connor's local football team, Carnlough Swifts told how the entire community will mourn the tragic loss.
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A spokesperson said: "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.
"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 Connors personality, warmth and sporting 'opinion'."
Posting on social media, one family friend said: "A huge light went out yesterday and today the world is a much darker place!
"You were a gentle giant with a heart of pure gold, it’s hard to imagine not seeing your face again. Love and healing prayers to Emma, the kids, the McNeill family and your many many friends."
'GONE WAY TOO SOON'
Another mourner remembered him as "one of the absolute best" whilst a third added: "A big personality gone and a huge void left."
A fourth told how it was an "unimaginable loss" whilst another described the news as "absolutely devastating".
He added: "Connor was one of the nicest, most genuine people you could ever meet.
"Got the odd bollocking or two from the big fella on the football field, but it would be quickly followed by an aul smile and a laugh after. Top bloke gone way too soon. Rest easy Big Root."
Connor's funeral details will be confirmed at a later date.
The PSNI are urging any witnesses of the crash to come forward with information.
Collision Investigation Unit Inspector Adair said: "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.”
Witnesses can also submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.