Police have confirmed that the pedestrian killed in a collision on Armagh’s Portadown Road was renowned traditional music educator Eithne Vallely, who was also Director of Music at Armagh Pipers Club.
Mrs Vallely, who was 81 and from the Armagh area, died at the scene after the incident on the morning of Friday, August 21. The collision involved a lorry and a female pedestrian.
What happened on Portadown Road
The PSNI said it received a report at approximately 8.20am on Friday, August 21, about a single-vehicle collision involving a lorry and a pedestrian in the Portadown Road area.
Officers attended alongside colleagues from other emergency services. Medical treatment was provided to Mrs Vallely, but she was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Portadown Road was closed for a time while the emergency response took place. Police have since confirmed that it has fully reopened.
Police appeal for information
The investigation into the circumstances of the collision remains ongoing. Police are asking anyone who was in the area at the time, witnessed what happened or may have dash-cam footage to come forward.
Information can be submitted through the PSNI witness appeal form at reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals. Anyone contacting police is asked to quote reference 247 21/08/26.
Members of the public can also call police on 101 or use the PSNI’s non-emergency reporting form. Information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through the Crimestoppers website.
Tributes to Armagh music figure
Mrs Vallely’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief from the Armagh traditional music community. Armagh Pipers Club has described itself as “devastated” following the tragic passing of its Director of Music.
Her death was confirmed by police on August 22, 2026, as the investigation and appeal for information continued.