Boy dies following Co Down hit-and-run

By Jonathan McCambridge, PA

A young boy has died following a hit-and-run incident in Co Down, police said.

The collision in the Strand area of Portaferry occurred shortly after 11pm on Tuesday.

Inspector Cherith Adair said: “It was reported that a red Skoda Fabia and a scooter were involved in the collision.

Police can confirm that a young boy has sadly died following a collision in Portaferry.https://t.co/OJfuBXAabd pic.twitter.com/Yaf8Vcx5nN

— Police Ards and North Down (@PSNIArdsNDown) July 9, 2025

“A young boy, who was riding the scooter, was taken to hospital but sadly died as a result of his injuries.

“One man aged 51-years-old was subsequently arrested on suspicion of a number of related offences. He remains in police custody at this time.

“The Strand remains closed to traffic at this time.”

The officer appealed for anyone who witnessed the collision or who may have dashcam or other footage to contact Collision Investigation Unit detectives via 101, quoting reference number 1788 08/07/25.