Two workers die and others remain trapped after a trench collapses during road works in Co Down

From the Newshound archive · first published 2 October 2026.

Two people have died and others remain trapped underground after a trench collapsed during road works on Ballygowan Road in Crossnacreevy, Co Down, shortly after 11am today. Firefighters with specialist equipment are working to free those still buried in the debris. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service confirmed no one has yet been brought out from the scene.

Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland inspectors are at the site investigating the circumstances of the collapse.

DUP MP for East Belfast Gavin Robinson confirmed Ballygowan Road is closed in both directions, saying his 'thoughts are with those who are caught up in this incident'.

Earthworks are believed to have been under way when the trench gave way, with police, ambulance and fire crews maintaining a large presence at the scene.