Teen Struck By Bus Dies

A teenage girl has died in hospital after being struck by a bus in Belfast city centre yesterday evening.

The incident occurred around 5pm at Castle Junction, where Donegal Place and Royal Avenue meet - just yards from the City Hall.

It is believed the girl was crushed beneath the wheels of the vehicle carrying rush-hour passengers.

According to witness reports, the sixteen year old walked out onto the road at the front of Tesco and was hit by the bus.

Rescue services, including police, three fire engines and an ambulance, arrived at the scene a short time later, and cleared the vicinity.

Witness heard the girl scream as she lay under the vehicle.

Members of the public comforted the girl as she awaited emergency services' treatment.

Fire crews used inflatable airbags to lift the front of the Metro bus, allowing paramedics to attend to the injured girl.

The girl was pulled free and rushed to the Royal Victoria Hospital, but later died from her injuries.

One eyewitness said: "I have never seen an accident like it in my life, it was terrible."

An investigation into the girl's death has now been launched.

Belfast Councillor Jim Rodgers said he would be seeking a meeting with local authorities to discuss road safety in the area.

"This is a dreadful tragedy in the heart of our city and we need to make sure there are no more accidents like this," he said.

"It is an exceptionally busy junction and we need to do more to let people know that that is not a pedestrianised area."

Mr Rodgers sent his condolences to the girl's family.

A 48-year-old man was hit by a bus at the junction of Donegall Square North and Donegall Square West on Saturday afternoon, and remains in a critical condition in hospital.

(PR)