Musician Eithne Vallely has died after being hit by a truck in Armagh, police have said.

The 81-year-old was walking in the Portadown Road area on Friday morning when she was struck. Emergency services attended the scene and medical treatment was provided, but Ms Vallely was pronounced deceased there.

The Portadown Road was closed for a time following the collision but has since fully reopened, according to the PSNI.

Police appeal for witnesses

Detective Inspector Stewart, from the PSNI’s collision investigation unit, said officers attended with colleagues from other emergency services.

“Officers attended, alongside colleagues from other emergency services.

“Medical treatment was provided to the pedestrian, however she was pronounced deceased at the scene.

“The Portadown Road, which was closed for a time, has now fully reopened.”

Police are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or has information that could assist the investigation to make contact through the PSNI witness appeal form at reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals. Those contacting police should quote reference 247 21/08/26. Information can also be provided by calling 101.

Tributes to a pioneering musician

Sinn Féin MP for Newry and Armagh Dáire Hughes paid tribute to Ms Vallely, describing her as a major figure in Irish cultural life. He said her contribution to traditional music and cultural expression had continued for decades and was recognised through numerous awards and honours.

Mr Hughes said Ms Vallely developed her musical ability after learning the tin whistle in primary school, later progressing to the piano, violin and other instruments. He also highlighted her early work collecting and recording traditional music.

Her influence extended beyond performance. Ms Vallely founded the Armagh Pipers Club with her husband, Brian, passing on her enthusiasm for traditional music to her family and the wider community. Her family includes children and grandchildren, who were among those offered condolences in the tribute.

Mr Hughes extended his sympathies to Brian Vallely, the couple’s children and grandchildren, the wider Vallely family, and Ms Vallely’s friends, neighbours and fellow musicians and learners.

The collision investigation remains the focus of the police witness appeal. The source report was published on 22 August 2026.