Alliance Councillor Stephen Donnelly and Infrastructure spokesperson Peter McReynolds MLA have said their thoughts are with the friends and family of two teenagers who have died in a crash on the A5.
A 19-year-old man and a 17-year-old girl died in an accident on the Doogary road around 21:50 last night (Tuesday).
Two days ago Councillor Donnelly stood with pupils from St Ciaran's College in Ballygawley as they marked the many lives that have been lost on the A5.
Councillor Donnelly said: “Our devastation as a community is beyond words. Just two days ago in Ballygawley, students gathered in grief and solidarity to remember those who had lost their lives on the A5, and last night two more young lives were robbed, including a pupil of St. Ciaran’s College.
“This tragedy reinforces the dangerous nature of the A5, and the ongoing urgency in needing to upgrade. Then we can hopefully prevent further injury and the tragic loss of life in the future.
“We stand as a community united in keeping the families affected in our thoughts and our hearts, as well as the school community at St. Ciaran’s College.”
Alliance Infrastructure spokesperson Peter McReynolds MLA added: “I am deeply saddened to hear about the death of two teenagers on the A5 and I extend my sympathies to the families of the victims and the wider community.
“The A5 is one of Northern Ireland’s most dangerous roads and has claimed more than 50 lives since 2006. The proposed upgrade for the A5 has faced several delays for numerous years and we cannot afford to wait any longer for improvements.
“Road safety is a priority for Alliance, and improving the A5 must also be a priority for the Department of Infrastructure.”