A Co Armagh village was last night in shock following the death of a young boy after being struck by a vehicle.
Police said the child was knocked down in the Dobsons Way area of Bessbrook yesterday morning.
He was taken to hospital for treatment but later died from his injuries.
Police last night issued an appeal for information about the collision, which happened at a new housing development on the outskirts of the village.
Ulster Unionist councillor David Taylor said it was "tragic" news.
“This is a heartbreaking incident which has no doubt left his family distraught and has come as a great shock to the entire local community," he said.
"My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this very sad time and I hope and trust they will find the necessary strength to cope with their grief over the difficult days which lie ahead."
SDLP assembly member Justin McNulty said the tragedy had been "felt by the entire community".
"My thoughts, prayers and sincere condolences are with the family of the deceased and the community at this very difficult time."
Sinn Fein councillor Roisin Mulgrew also said the news had "sent shockwaves throughout the community, and the loss will be felt in every home in the area, but not least with the grieving family".
"My thoughts are with his family and friends over the coming weeks and months as they come to terms with this tragedy, as will those of every citizen in the area".
The death comes a month after six-year-old Donnacadh Maguire lost his life in the Bogside area of Derry.
The St Eugene's Primary School pupil was found lying on the road with serious head injuries which police said may have been "sustained as a result of a collision with a vehicle".
A total of 33 people - seven of them pedestrians - have lost their lives in road traffic collisions in Northern Ireland so far this year.
