Lydia pictured with Dad Paul at the Ballymena United football match on Boxing Day.
Tributes have been paid following the tragic death of young County Antrim woman, 21-year-old Lydia Ross, in a single vehicle road traffic collision which occurred on Thursday night shortly after 10:15pm (28th December) on the Curragh Road, Aghadowey.
Lydia who was from the Ballymoney area, was travelling as a passenger in a blue Peugeot 207 when she sustained serious injuries in the collision. The young woman was taken to hospital for treatment, but sadly passed away from her injuries.
A Police spokesperson said:
“Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information, including dash-cam, CCTV or other footage, is asked to contact Police on 101, quoting reference number 1887 of 28/12/23.
"Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/."
Lydia's father, Paul Ross, shared the devastating news of his beloved daughter's untimely passing in an online post on Friday morning. Paul and "Princess Lydia" have been avid Ballymena United supporters and are well known faces at the Showgrounds.
Heartbroken dad, Paul said:
"Last night our beautiful daughter Princess Lydia was killed in a car accident. Words can't describe how we are feeling. My match going companion with Ballymena United every Saturday, this was our last selfie [above] on Boxing Day #cosb."
21-year-old Lydia Ross
As news emerged of the tragedy, a spokesperson for Ballymena United FC commented saying:
"Ballymena United are shocked and saddened to learn of Lydia's tragic and untimely passing.
"Lydia was a well known and committed Sky Blue who attended faithfully along with her father Paul.
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Ross family at this extremely difficult time and assure them of our thoughts and prayers in the days that lie ahead."
Local councillor, Darryl Wilson said:
"I am deeply saddened, devastated to acknowledge the tragic road traffic accident that occurred, claiming the life of a wonderful young lady Lydia, a family friend.
"My heartfelt sympathies go out to her Mum, Dad, sisters, friends, and all those affected by this devastating loss.
"I have been in contact with Dad, and let him know that as a community, we stand together in mourning and offer our thoughts, prayers and support during this difficult time."
The Curragh Road was closed overnight and throughout Friday morning, but has since reopened.