Tributes are flooding in for a 17-year-old boy who lost his life in a car accident that occurred in Co Derry during the weekend. Tragic news struck early Sunday morning (May 28) as Alex Smallwoods lost his life in a car accident on the A6 Glenshane Road in Dungiven, Co Derry. Smallwoods was driving at the time of the collision.
Tributes are flooding in for a 17-year-old boy who tragically lost his life in a car accident in Co Derry this past weekend.
Tragic news emerged on Sunday morning (May 28) as it was reported that Alex Smallwoods had passed away in a car accident on the A6 Glenshane Road in Dungiven, Co Derry. Smallwoods was driving at the time of the collision.
Alex was a multi-talented individual who had a passion for both farming and sports. He was actively involved with Churchill United Football Club in Derry and had made a name for himself in the sports community. Additionally, he was associated with Brigade Cricket Club, who recently paid a poignant tribute to him on social media.
In a recent Facebook post, Brigade Cricket Club reported that the tragic news of 17-year-old Alex Smallwoods’ passing in a road traffic accident has left the entire club in a state of devastation. Alex, a highly popular young player at the club, will be deeply missed by his numerous friends.
Having progressed through various youth teams in recent years, he has now become a regular player in our 2nds and 3rds.
Alex was a delightful addition to the team, always sporting a cheerful grin and an unwavering passion for cricket. The family of the deceased, including his mother and father Sara and Stewart, his sister Hannah, and the wider family circle, are in the thoughts and prayers of many during this challenging time.
In a statement, Foyle College paid tribute to its former student.
“The school community of Foyle College is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our recent school leaver, Alex Smallwoods,” the school said on Facebook.
“From Drumahoe Primary School, Alex joined Foyle College as an enthusiastic Year 8 in September 2017, where he established lasting friendships amongst his peer group. He was also widely involved with local sporting clubs, Brigade Cricket Club and Institute Football Club, and had a keen interest in agriculture and farming.
“In September past, having completed his GCSEs with us, Alex embarked upon a course at Greenmount Agricultural College, an area he brought first-hand experience to, having owned his own sheep and worked with local farmers. He recently completed his first year and, unsurprisingly, was excelling at his new College.
“To his immediate and wider family, friends and teammates, we extend our deepest sympathies on their profound loss. We hold each of you in our thoughts and hearts through the days ahead.”
“Emergency services attended and provided medical treatment,” a PSNI spokesperson said.
“Sadly, the driver of the Vauxhall Corsa died at the scene.
“Our investigation is underway and we are appealing to anyone who was on the Glenshane Road around this time and who has dash-cam footage, to contact the Collision Investigation Unit on 101.”
A death notice sates that the teenager died suddenly as a result of a road traffic accident.
“Adored son of Stewart and Sara, much loved big brother of Hannah, cherished grandson of Elsie, Annie and Billy,” it adds.
“Very deeply regretted and will be lovingly remembered by his entire family circle.
“Now the labourer’s task is over.”
Foyle MLA Gary Middleton offered his condolences to the family of the deceased.
“Deeply saddened to hear that there has been a tragic loss of a young life following the serious road traffic collision on the Glenshane Road in the early hours of Sunday morning,” he posted on social media.
“I know the families of both the injured and bereaved.
“My thoughts and prayers are with all of the family circle at this sad time.”