Heartbreaking news comes from Belfast as a father had to face the unimaginable: telling his children that their mother wouldn’t return home from the hospital. Valerie Armstrong was tragically killed when a scrambler bike struck her while she was out walking the dogs in a local forest park.
Seamus Armstrong recounts the devastating day: “I was enjoying a sunny day in the garden with our kids. Valerie had just returned from work and helped with some tasks before deciding to take the dogs for a walk. We’d planned to dine out as a family that evening.” Little did he know, this would be their last conversation.
Within thirty minutes, his neighbours alerted him that Valerie had been in an accident. Rushing to the scene, he found paramedics desperately working to save her. Sadly, despite their efforts, Valerie succumbed to her injuries. The next day, Seamus faced the heartbreaking task of telling his kids that their mummy would not be returning from the hospital.
This tragic event has become a catalyst for change, sparking a campaign to tackle the illegal use of scrambler bikes. A compelling video featuring Seamus’s story aims to raise awareness and put an end to the dangers these bikes present. The initiative, part of Op CHICQUER, in collaboration with Colin Neighbourhood Policing Team, community representatives, and youth organisations, is showing positive outcomes. A promising reduction in scrambler-related incidents has been recorded citywide, evidencing the effectiveness of community involvement and youth education.
Ultimately, the campaign seeks to prevent more families from experiencing such tragic losses and ensure the safety and peace of Belfast’s community.