MP Margaret Ritchie knew 88-year-old road crash victim

POLICE have launched an investigation after an 88-year-old man died after he was knocked down by a van in Co Down.

The crash happened in Crossgar’s Downpatrick Street just before 10am on Wednesday.

The victim, a pedestrian, was struck by a van on the road.

South Down MP Margaret Ritchie MP offered her condolences to the pensioner’s family.

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and untimely death of this Crossgar man,” the SDLP politician said.

“He was a former health service worker and has been a stalwart of the community in Crossgar, although advanced in years.

“His passing in such tragic circumstances will numb the entire community, many of whom would have known him well.”

The PSNI said the road was closed as an investigation was carried out.

Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to contact police on 0845 600 8000.