An 81-year-old Armagh musician who helped shape traditional Irish music in the city and beyond has died after being struck by a truck on the Portadown Road.
Eithne Vallely was walking in the Portadown Road area on Friday morning when the collision happened. Emergency services attended and medical treatment was provided, but she was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland said the road was closed for a time following the crash but has since fully reopened. The collision investigation remains ongoing, and officers are appealing to anyone who witnessed what happened or has information that could assist them.
Police appeal after fatal collision
Detective Inspector Stewart, from the PSNI’s collision investigation unit, said officers attended alongside 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.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact police 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
Ms Vallely was remembered as a major figure in Irish cultural life. Dáire Hughes, Sinn Féin MP for Newry and Armagh, paid tribute to her contribution to traditional music and cultural expression, saying her influence continued for decades and was recognised through numerous awards and honours.
According to Mr Hughes, Ms Vallely began developing her musical ability after learning the tin whistle in primary school. She later progressed to the piano, violin and other instruments, while also undertaking early work collecting and recording traditional music.
Her contribution extended beyond her own performances. Ms Vallely founded the Armagh Pipers Club with her husband, Brian, helping to pass on her enthusiasm for traditional music to her family and the wider community.
Condolences were offered to Brian Vallely, the couple’s children and grandchildren, and the wider Vallely family. Mr Hughes also expressed sympathy to Ms Vallely’s friends, neighbours, fellow musicians and learners.
The PSNI witness appeal remains open as officers continue their investigation into the collision.