School Bus Driver Dies in County Armagh Crash, No Children Injured
A school bus driver tragically died following a crash in Belleeks, County Armagh, on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. The bus, carrying approximately 40 pupils from St. Paul’s High School in Bessbrook, left the Tullyah Road and ended up in a ditch. Fortunately, none of the children sustained serious injuries.
Details of the Incident
The crash occurred shortly after 3:30 PM GMT on Tuesday in the Tullyah Road area, between Newtownhamilton and Camlough . Emergency services, including the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (with two appliances from Newry and one from central station) and five ambulances, responded to the scene . Firefighters worked to rescue the driver from the vehicle, but he was pronounced dead at the scene .
Confirmation from Authorities and School
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is treating the incident as a “sudden death” and is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash . St. Paul’s High School confirmed that its pupils were on board the bus and that none were seriously injured . Principal Dáithí Murray stated that the school’s Critical Incident Response Team would be available to support affected pupils .
Statement from Quinn Coaches
Quinn Coaches, the bus company operating the vehicle, expressed deep sadness over the loss of their colleague . In a statement posted on Facebook, the company described the driver as a “respected and experienced member of our team” who would be “greatly missed” . Quinn Coaches confirmed they are fully cooperating with the authorities in the investigation .
Community Reaction
Local political representatives have expressed their condolences and shock following the incident. SDLP Newry and Armagh MLA Justin McNulty noted the “deep sadness” in the area and expressed relief that the children escaped with minor injuries . Sinn Féin MLA for Newry and Armagh, Aoife Finnegan, likewise expressed her sympathy and relief that no children were hurt .
The Tullyah Road was temporarily closed following the crash but has since reopened .
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