Two dead after trench collapse during road works in County Down

Two people have died following a trench collapse during road works in Crossnacreevy, County Down. The incident occurred near the Ballygowan Road on Friday, October 2, 2026, shortly after 11:00 am.

Emergency services, including the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, three ambulances, and two Hazardous Area Response Teams (HART), attended the scene. While two fatalities have been confirmed, reports indicate that others may have been trapped beneath the debris, with firefighters using specialist equipment to assist in rescue efforts. The Police Service of Northern Ireland closed the Ballygowan Road in both directions to facilitate the emergency operation and preserve the site for investigation.

The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) has deployed inspectors to the workplace to examine the circumstances. HSENI stated they are currently liaising with emergency services and other relevant agencies, noting it would be inappropriate to comment further while inquiries are ongoing.