A MAN due to get married this summer has become the second person to die in a workplace accident in 48 hours.
The man, named locally as John Traynor from Ballycastle, Co Antrim, was killed on Knockagh Road in Carrickfergus, Co Antrim, yesterday morning.
It is understood Mr Traynor, who was in his forties, became trapped under heavy machinery and died at the scene.
He had been due to marry his partner in the summer.
It is understood their wedding had already been delayed due to the pandemic.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is making enquiries into the fatal accident.
A police spokeswoman said Mr Traynor's death "is not being treated as suspicious".
Sinn Féin councillor Cara McShane said the death of "an absolute gentleman of a fella" has sent "shockwaves across Ballycastle and the wider community".
"The thoughts and prayers of everyone in this community are with John Traynor's family," she said.
She said Mr Traynor, known as Guttie, was "known and respected throughout this community".
SDLP councillor Margaret Anne McKillop extended her sympathies to Mr Traynor's family.
"My heart goes out to his family and friends after receiving this heartbreaking news and my thoughts are with them," she said.
Meanwhile, a man from Crumlin, Co Antrim, who died in a workplace accident in Newry will be laid to rest on Friday.
Ian McCollum was fatally injured at McKinstry Biomass Ltd in the Carnbane Industrial Estate on Monday afternoon.
The father-of-one worked as a driver for the company, which processes recycled wood products into fuel.
It is understood Mr McCollum was fatally injured in an accident involving heavy machinery.
Police said the death was not being treated as suspicious.
The Health and Safety Executive said it had been informed "of a workplace incident in the Newry area" and was making inquiries.
In a statement, the firm said: "The directors of the McKinstry Group, Darren and Mark McKinstry, and the entire work force are united in expressing their deepest sympathy for the tragic death of one of their most respected drivers, Ian McCollum.
"The thoughts and prayers of the entire McKinstry workforce are with the McCollum family."
Mr McCollum is survived by his wife Kathryn, son Aaron and wider family circle.
A service will take place at his home on Carmavy Road, Nutts Corner, Crumlin at noon tomorrow, followed by burial at Carmavy graveyard.
