Northern Ireland

Boy (six) injured in car crash dies in hospital

Ethan McCourt
Ethan McCourt Ethan McCourt

A six year old boy injured in a road crash last week has died in hospital.

Ethan McCourt, from Toomebridge, was taken to the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children following a crash on the Castledawson Road roundabout, Magherafelt, Co Derry, at 7.50am last Monday.

The two-vehicle crash happened as Ethan was travelling to school.

The six-year-old died in hospital on Saturday afternoon.

Three other people were taken to hospital following the crash. Ethan's father Declan McCourt remained in hospital last night.

Ethan was a primary three pupil at St Mary's Primary School in Bellaghy, Co Derry.

Mass of the Angels will be celebrated in the Church of St Mary, Bellaghy, at 11am tomorrow.

Parish priest Monsignor Andrew Dolan said the area is stunned by the news.

"He's a young boy," he said. "He was to be seven next week.

"His family are devastated, his wee classmates too."

St Mary's Primary school described Ethan as a "kind and gentle" pupil.

His grandmother Margaret McKenna previously worked at the school.

Ethan is survived by his parents Oonagh and Declan and wider family circle.

It is understood that police are still investigating the circumstances of the crash.

Bellaghy Wolfetones Gaelic Athletic Club posted on social media: "We are devastated to share the news that our underage player Ethan McCourt has sadly passed to his eternal rest following an accident earlier this week.

"Deepest condolences to his parents Oonagh & Declan & extended McKenna & McCourt families."

The post added: "His father Declan remains in our thoughts as he continues to receive treatment in hospital."

A teacher from St Benedict’s College Randalstown, wrote on social media: “Just heartbreaking! You were such a great wee friend to all the boys and girls in P3. We pray for all the staff and children at Saint Mary’s Primary school and send heartfelt condolences to Oonagh, Bernard, Margaret, and all the McKenna and McCourt family. Rest In Peace little Ethan”.