“The community is rallying round to offer their deepest sympathy and comfort to his family and close friends.”
The young boy who died in hospital after a crash at the weekend has been formally named by police as Mason Keilhauer.
The 11-year-old, from the Shankill area, passed away after a crash on the Shankill Road on Saturday, March 7. The local community is in mourning following his passing, coming together to support his family.
On Monday afternoon, police confirmed that Mason had passed away after the collision. Chief Inspector Celeste Simpson said: “At approximately 7.25pm on Saturday evening, we received a report of a collision involving a grey BMW X5 and a male pedestrian, close to the junction of Dover Street.
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“The boy was taken to hospital following the collision however, has since very sadly died.
“A 34-year-old man was arrested at the scene and has been released on bail pending further police enquiries. The Shankill Road was closed for a number of hours but has since re-opened.
“Collision Investigation Unit detectives are continuing to investigate the circumstances of this collision and I am appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the collision, or to anyone who may have CCTV or other footage that could assist with enquiries, to contact 101 quoting reference number 1365 07/03/26.”
In a social media post, Mason’s aunt said she was “absolutely heartbroken” following his passing, adding: “This will haunt me to the day I die.”
Local MLA Brian Kingston said there is “incredible sadness” across the area following the heartbreaking news. He added: “Everyone’s thoughts and prayers are with Mason’s family in their devastating loss. The community is rallying round to offer their deepest sympathy and comfort to his family and close friends.
“We are mindful that other children and members of the community witnessed the accident on Saturday evening. They will also need support.”
In a statement, Malvern Primary School said it wishes to “extend it’s sincere condolences to Mason’s family and friends.” A spokesperson for the school added: “Mason was a pupil with us as part of a Clarawood school class, and we are deeply saddened by the news of his passing. Our thoughts are with everyone who knew, and loved him.”
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