A devastating incident in County Tyrone has claimed the life of a beloved local pensioner after a car smashed through the front of a Spar shop. Jock Rafferty, aged 71, was tragically pronounced dead at the scene following the collision on Moor Road in Clonoe, outside Coalisland.
Emergency Response and Community Shock
Emergency services were swiftly dispatched to the scene on Tuesday afternoon after reports of the crash. The Police Service of Northern Ireland, alongside the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and the NI Air Ambulance, attended, but despite their efforts, Mr Rafferty could not be saved. A spokesperson for NIAS confirmed that they received a 999 call at 12:16 on Wednesday, 28th January, and dispatched one emergency ambulance along with the Charity Air Ambulance, though no patients were transported from the location.
Local Tributes and Outpouring of Grief
The community has been left reeling by the sudden loss. Local SDLP Councillor Malachy Quinn expressed profound shock, noting that Mr Rafferty was a well-known figure with strong ties to local football clubs. He extended his thoughts and prayers to the family during this difficult period. Similarly, Mid Ulster MLA Linda Dillon described the event as devastating for the close-knit community, emphasising that the family is widely respected and liked, and that the entire area will feel the pain of this loss.
Police Investigation and Road Closures
Chief Inspector Simpson from the Collision Investigation Unit provided details, stating that police were alerted at around 12:20pm to a car crashing into a shop and striking a member of the public. The Moor Road remains closed between Washingbay Road and Gortgonis Road as enquiries continue. Authorities are appealing for witnesses or anyone with digital footage to come forward to assist the investigation, quoting reference number 651 of 28/01/26 when contacting 101.
Ongoing Impact and Safety Concerns
This tragic accident highlights broader concerns about road safety in the area, with the investigation aiming to determine the exact circumstances. The incident has not only resulted in a profound personal loss but also disrupted local traffic and business operations. As the community mourns, there is a collective call for support and vigilance to prevent such tragedies in the future.
