THE DRIVER OF a bus involved in a crash in County Armagh has died.

A male driver for the service passed away after the bus he was driving was involved in a road traffic accident whilst transporting school children.

The BBC reported that the bus was carrying 40 pupils from St Paul’s High School in Bessbrook when it crashed in Belleeks after 3.30pm yesterday.

The PSNI said no other injuries were reported. The road was closed for a period of time but has since re-opened.

Photos of the scene show the bus on its side in a ditch on a rural road.

“Despite immediate emergency response, our dear colleague sadly passed away,” Quinn Coaches said in a statement.

“Our first thoughts are with his family, friends and fellow colleagues during this incredibly difficult time. He was a respected and experienced member of our team, and he will be greatly missed.”

The company said the “safety and well-being of our drivers and passengers is always our highest priority”.

“We are fully cooperating with the relevant authorities as part of standard procedure.”

It requested that the privacy of the driver’s family and the school community be respected at this time.