An 11-year-old schoolboy has tragically died in hospital days after being hit by a car in Belfast, with a man arrested in connection with the incident. Mason Keilhauer passed away following the collision involving a grey BMW X5 on Shankill Road in the west of the city on Saturday evening, according to police confirmation.
Details of the Fatal Incident
Chief Inspector Celeste Simpson stated that authorities received a report of the crash at approximately 7.25pm on Saturday near the junction of Dover Street. The boy was rushed to hospital after being struck by the vehicle but succumbed to his injuries, sparking a wave of grief across the local community.
Arrest and Police Investigation
A 34-year-old man was arrested at the scene of the accident and has since been released on bail pending further inquiries by the police. The Shankill Road was closed for several hours following the tragic event to facilitate investigation efforts but has since been reopened to traffic.
Community Response and Tributes
In the days since Mason's death, the local community has been paying heartfelt tributes to the young boy. Shankill United, a local football club, expressed a profound sense of sadness over the loss, highlighting the shock felt across the greater Shankill area.
In a social media post, the team remarked: The passing of someone so young hits differently. As a mark of respect, all Shankill United teams will hold a minute silence at this weekend's games. This gesture underscores the deep impact of the tragedy on residents and organisations alike.
Ongoing Developments
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision, with the released suspect awaiting further legal proceedings. The incident has raised concerns about road safety in the area, as communities rally to support Mason's family during this difficult time.
