DUNGIVEN, Co. Derry — A deep sense of grief and disbelief has swept through Dungiven and the wider Derry community following the death of 69-year-old Patrick Flanagan, who was fatally injured in a suspected hit-and-run collision on Foreglen Road early Sunday morning.
Police from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) were called to the scene shortly after 1:35 a.m., responding to reports of a man found seriously injured on the roadside. Mr. Flanagan was taken to hospital but succumbed to his injuries a short time later.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
Detectives believe he was struck by a vehicle that failed to remain at the scene, and an urgent appeal has been issued for dash-cam footage or witness information from anyone who was in the area between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m.
Detective Inspector Gillian Connolly, who is leading the investigation, confirmed that inquiries are ongoing. “We are appealing to anyone who may have been driving along Foreglen Road at that time and who saw anything unusual—or who may have dash-cam footage—to contact police immediately,” she said.
Local political representatives expressed shock and sorrow over the tragedy. Cara Hunter MLA offered condolences to the victim’s family and called on anyone with information to assist investigators. Caoimhe Archibald MLA of Sinn Féin described the incident as “a heartbreaking loss for the community,” while Amy Mairs of the Alliance Party added, “Every death on our roads is a tragedy. My thoughts are with the family and friends mourning Mr. Flanagan’s loss.”
Residents of Dungiven have been left shaken by the suddenness of the event. Many remember Mr. Flanagan as a quiet, kind-hearted man rooted in the local area. Candles and flowers have begun to appear near the site where he was found, as neighbours unite in grief and call for accountability.
The PSNI continues to treat the case as a high-priority investigation, and officers are urging anyone with information—no matter how minor it may seem—to come forward.
Witnesses can contact Coleraine CID at 101, quoting reference number “123 02/11/25”, or submit information online via the PSNI website. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
As Dungiven mourns, one message resounds across the community: justice for Patrick Flanagan and closure for his grieving family.