POLICE in New York are investigating a hit-and-run that claimed the life of Newry man Kevin Bell.
The 26-year-old was killed instantly when he was hit by a van travelling at speed as he stepped out of a taxi at around 3.30am in the Oneida Avenue area of the city.
Police in the US are examining closed-circuit TV footage that is believed to have captured the incident.
From a large Newry family, Mr Bell was a champion Irish dancer who represented St Moninna's, Killeavy for many years in Scor competitions.
He was a past pupil of Cloughogue Primary School and Abbey Grammar School.
A butcher by trade, he had worked at William Baird's of Newry before leaving Co Down in August last year to work in New York.
SDLP assembly member Dominic Bradley described Mr Bell as an "exceptional young man who brought joy and happiness to his family and to all who knew him".
"I have no doubt that in the days which lie ahead the people of Newry will continue to rally around them and help them bear the great sadness of Kevin's passing," he said.
Relatives based in New York have been liaising between the police, the coroner's office and the family and are helping arrange the repatriation of Mr Bell's remains.
Close friend Patricia Heaney, of Heaney Keenan Funeral Home, had planned to fly out at the end of June and visit the Newry man in New York.
She is now helping to arrange the return of his remains to Co Down for his funeral which is expected to take place this week.
Speaking yesterday she sent condolences to his two sisters and four brothers, including his twin Brendan who is said to be "simply devastated" by the sudden loss.
"Kevin was a larger-than-life character and although it is cliche he was the life and soul of every party," Ms Heaney said.
"Everyone knew and loved him and those who didn't know him knew of him," she said.
"My heart is broke for his family and his vast circle of friends.
"Preparations are under way in order for his remains to be repatriated to his home town, hopefully within the coming week," she said.
Mr Bell's father Collie - a member of Newry Mitchel's GAA club - and mother Eithne are said to be "overwhelmed" by the outpouring of support from people in Newry.
Fundraising events have been organised to help with the cost of repatriation.
The first will take place tomorrow at Newry's Canal Court Hotel.
