The Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Minister for Infrastructure Liz Kimmins have issued an urgent road safety appeal following five fatalities across the region last weekend.
The most recent road deaths bring the number of fatalities this year so far to 29. This is more than double the number of road deaths for the same period last year in Northern Ireland when there were 14 road deaths.
Appealing to road users and drivers to put road safety first, Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones told media today: “The past weekend has been catastrophic on our roads.
“Within 24 hours, between Saturday 25 April and Sunday 26 April, five people lost their lives as a result of road traffic collisions.
“The thoughts and sympathies of the Police Service of Northern Ireland are with the families and the loved ones of those who have died, and those who were injured.”
Speaking at a press conference alongside Minister Kimmins, ACC Jones said:
“These deaths are a stark and cruel reminder of the very real dangers that exist on our roads. Twenty nine people have lost their lives on roads in Northern Ireland so far this year – what we might think of traditionally as the size of a school class.
“This is 29 families whose lives have been changed in an instant and forever – friends and communities left devastated.”
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said:
“We are just four months into 2026 and so far, 29 people have died on our roads.
“That means, on average, a life has been lost every four days. They set off on what was to be an everyday journey, but it turned out to be their last day. The loss occurs in an instant, but the devastation it causes lasts a lifetime for those left behind and I send my heartfelt condolences to everyone who is grieving today.
“As we head into the bank holiday weekend, my appeal is for everyone using the roads to take extra care. Control your speed, put your phone away, never drink or drug drive, don’t get distracted and always wear your seatbelt.
“We all want to get out and about to enjoy the good weather with our friends and family. We’ve all got plans, places to be.
“Let’s make sure we all get there – and get home – safely.”
(Picture: PSNI)
