It appears the toddler, who has been named Noah McAleese, was hit by a tractor at around 12.30pm on Friday. He was rushed to the hospital for treatment but died a short time later. The PSNI, the Health and Safety Executive and Environmental Health from Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council are all investigating. Family, friends and local councilors have expressed their sympathy, describing the news as devastating. Cuchullain GAA club in Dunloy observed a minute’s silence before a match against Dungloe on Saturday. Noah’s father played for the club. “Everyone at Dunloy GA+CC was deeply saddened to hear yesterday the tragic news of the sudden death of Noah McAleese,” the club said in a Facebook post. “Noah is the son of our former player Johnny and his wife Corrina. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire McAleese and Cassidy family circle at this very sad time.” North Antrim MLA Dr Patricia O’Lynn said her thoughts were with the child’s family who are experiencing “unspeakable grief”. “Ballymoney is a close-knit town and this news has sent shockwaves through the community,” he said.
Sinn Féin MLA Philip McGuigan added: “This is just a heartbreaking tragedy which has left a family devastated. “Indeed, this news has shocked and touched the hearts of the whole community. People just can’t accept it. Thoughts and prayers are with the family at the center of this awful situation.” Ballymoney DUP councilor Mervyn Storey said the boy’s family were overwhelmed with grief. “It is difficult to find words to comment on this tragic incident which has resulted in the death of a little two-year-old boy,” Mr Story said. “The grief this family has been plunged into is immeasurable.” He said that when he learned of the incident he thought, as a grandfather himself, “how unbearable it would be to face such sadness.” “Our thoughts and prayers are with the immediate family and extended family at this time of grief and loss and we assure them of our sympathy and support,” he added. UUP councilor Darryl Wilson, in a Facebook post, wrote that the “whole community is heartbroken” by the “terrible tragedy”. “No words can express how we feel, our collective hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by this devastating loss,” he added. Want a quick and special update on the biggest news? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out what you need to know.