A YOUNG Co Tyrone man killed in a road crash on the M1 motorway had been on the way to pick up his partner and newborn son from hospital.
Phillip Rainey (21) from Omagh died on Wednesday.
Police said the new father's white BMW left the east-bound carriageway near the Strangmore junction near Dungannon at around 10.40am. The motorway remained closed for some time following the tragedy.
Mr Rainey, who worked on his family's farm, was a former student of Omagh Academy.
Speaking to The Irish News, his grandfather, UUP councillor Allan Rainey said the family had been left "devastated" by the tragic loss.
"We are torn apart," he said.
"He was on the way to bring the baby home. He had a wee boy. My fourth great-grandchild".
Mr Rainey said his grandson was "one of life's gentlemen".
"He was just a young lad," he said.
"He was a quiet individual. He was devoted to his work. He had a pleasant personality and he gave his best to whatever it was.
"If he was playing rugby or drumming in the wee marching band, he gave it his best, quiet and honestly. He was a friend to everyone".
The councillor said his grandson, who worked on the family farm between Ballygawley and Omagh with his father and uncle, would have been "over the moon" to have become a father.
UUP leader Doug Beattie said: "On behalf of the Ulster Unionist Party, I offer my sincere condolences to the Rainey family following Phillip`s tragic death.
"They are very much in our thoughts and prayers as they mourn a terrible loss.
"Phillip was the grandson of councillor Allan Rainey and my heart goes out to him, Phillip`s mum and dad, and his partner and new born child. For a young father to lose his life as he travelled to visit his partner and child in hospital is utterly heartbreaking.
"I only hope that the family will find some comfort in the support they receive from friends, neighbours and the entire community as they try to come to terms with their loss".
Posting on Facebook, Omagh Academicals Rugby Football Club described Mr Rainey as an "absolute gentleman".
"It is with deep regret we learn of the death of Phillip Rainey. A proud Accie who played his heart out every time he took to the field and was the life and soul after the game.
"Gone far too soon and an absolute gentleman. Thoughts and prayers go out to the Rainey & McKeown families and all his friends. May he rest in peace".
Police have appealed for information about the collision.
