American tourist dies after serious collision near Dark Hedges

A 31-year-old man has died after a serious colision on the Gracehill Road in Armoy on Tuesday 25th September.
Scene of collision at Dark HedgesScene of collision at Dark Hedges
Scene of collision at Dark Hedges

Police can confirm that the man who died was Michael Munro from Orange, Connecticut, USA.

A woman aged in her 30’s remains in hospital being treated for injuries which are not thought to be life threatening.

The road is close to the Dark Hedges - a tree-lined avenue made famous by its appearance in the Game Of Thrones TV series.

Collision near Dark HedgesCollision near Dark Hedges
Collision near Dark Hedges

North Antrim Assembly member Mervyn Storey expressed his sadness, and raised concerns about the safety of the junction where the collision happened.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased and all those who have been involved in this very sad news," he said.

TUV MLA Jim Allister MLA said: "I was saddened to learn of the death of Mr Michael Munro, an American tourist, yesterday evening as a result of traffic collision on the Gracehill Road in Armoy. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family circle and friends at this time.

"This section of road has long been identified by residents of the area as an accident hotspot due to the tourist draw of the Dark Hedges which has brought a significant number of people and vehicles to this rural road. To that end I have written to the PSNI and DfI Roads to press for action to improve safety, particularly at the junctions."

Sinn Féin Councillor Cara McShane also expressed her shock and sadness at the fatality.The Causeway Coast and Glens representative said: "There is a deep sense of shock in the local community at the news of this accident.

"It is particularly sad given this young man had traveled to Ireland from the USA. Foremost in our minds right now is his family and friends and to everyone involved in this terrible tragedy."