Dad pays heartbreaking tribute to ‘princess’ daughter, 21, after she dies in horror Antrim crash
A HEARTBROKEN dad has paid tribute to his "princess" daughter after she died in a horror crash last night.
Lydia Ross, from Ballymoney, died in a single car collision in Antrim on Thursday at around 10.15pm.
The 21-year-old football fan was rushed to hospital with serious injuries but was later pronounced dead.
And her devastated dad Paul took to social media to share the sad news this morning.
He posted a photo on X and 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 on Boxing Day ."
'HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES'
Ballymena United FC said they were "very saddened" to hear the news.
They said: “We are very saddened to hear this… from all at BUFC we extend our heartfelt condolences to you and your family and friends at this extremely difficult time.
“You have our thoughts and prayers in the days and weeks that lie ahead.”
They added in another post: "Sky Blue tribute.
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"In memory of Lydia Ross and Lynden Campbell (nee Garrett), Ballymena United players will wear black armbands tomorrow as a mark of respect.
"A supporters tribute of a minute's applause has been suggested to take place when the match clock reaches 21."
A number of people also commented underneath Paul's post and said they are thinking of Lydia's loved ones.
One person said: "There are simply no words."
Another added: "What devastating news. I’m so so sorry and send love to your family.";
Someone else wrote: "Sorry for your loss."
'IN DISBELIEF'
Dunaghy Flute Band said the local community has been "plunged into sadness" after the Christmas tragedy.
They wrote on Facebook: "Last night the local community was plunged into sadness with the tragic death of Lydia Ross, leaving everyone numb and in disbelief of what has happened.
"Lydia was an avid Ballymena Utd fan, regularly attending their matches with her dad Paul, our good friend and fellow member of the Marching Band community.
"Words from none of us will ease the pain of Lydia's family and friends but our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with them all over sad days which lye ahead.
"Safe in the arms of Jesus."
The PSNI are appealing for anyone with information or dashcam footage to contact them.
They said: “Lydia Ross, 21, who was from the Ballymoney area, sustained serious injuries in a collision involving a blue Peugeot 207 in the Curragh Road area, which occurred shortly after 10.15pm yesterday evening, Thursday December 28.
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“She was taken to hospital for treatment, but sadly passed away from her injuries.
“Inquiries 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.”