Woman Hit By Scrambler Dies

A woman hit by a scrambler motorbike in west Belfast has died.

Valerie Armstrong was walking her dog in Colin Glen Forest Park on Tuesday, 19 July, when she was struck by the vehicle. The mother-of-three died in hospital as a result of her injuries.

A 17-year-old male appeared in court accused of causing death by dangerous driving and having no insurance. He has been remanded in custody for four weeks.

Another male, aged 15, has been released on police bail.

Sinn Féin MLA Jennifer McCann said: "The death of Valerie Armstrong following the incident in Colin Glen Forest Park is a tragedy.

"The community has been shocked by what happened to this mother of three young children.

"My thoughts and those of the entire local community are with the family and friends of Valerie Armstrong at this sad and difficult time.

"There is a clear need to address the problem of scrambler use and I will be meeting with the PSNI and have requested a meeting with the Justice Minister to discuss the current legislation and enforcement in relation to these machines..

"I will also be meeting with the Minister for Infrastructure to discuss the need for an awareness campaign in relation to the dangers scramblers and quads present when used outside of designated places established for their use."

SDLP West Belfast MLA Alex Attwood also expressed his condolences.

He said: "On my own behalf and on behalf of the SDLP, I wish to express deep condolences to the family of Valarie and her next of kin. This is a profound tragedy, taking a young woman from her family. The sympathy of everybody is with the family in these terrible days.

"The circumstances of this incident raise again questions about activities involving these bikes. As a matter of great importance, the various authorities should again look at what further regulation and enforcement is needed to reduce the risk of further and future serious incidents."

Superintendent Melanie Jones said: "This is an active and live investigation … and I am appealing for any members of the public who were in the park (Tuesday) evening and saw any off-road bikes being used at around 6pm in the run up to this tragic collision to please come forward with an information that you may hold.

"I want to take this opportunity to remind the public that while the use of such motorised vehicles as a leisure activity can appear to be both exciting and fun, if used inappropriately, can be dangerous and against the law.

"We are aware of concerns in the local community about people riding scramblers and quads recklessly, especially in public parks, and I want to assure the public that we will take action to curb the nuisance and dangers associated with the use of off-road scramblers and quads in public areas."

Superintendent Jones continued: "I would appeal to anyone who witnesses this type of activity in the area or who has any information to contact their local police on 101. Or, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111."

(MH)