The owners of Quinn Coaches have praised the “bravery, calmness and quick thinking” of the children who were caught up in Tuesday’s school bus collision in south Armagh.
Phelim and Conleth Quinn also reiterated their condolences and asked for prayers for the family of John McSorley, the driver, who has been hailed a ‘hero’ for his actions but who tragically died at the scene.
Funeral arrangements for the Keady man – who will be laid to rest on Sunday – were confirmed on Thursday evening.
Mr Sorley is described in a death notice as the “dearly beloved son of the late Anthony and Jesse and brother of the late Liam RIP”.
It adds: “His remains will repose at his sister Sheila Conway’s residence 55 Lagan Rd Keady BT60 3ES from this evening (Thursday) until removal on Sunday, to arrive at St Patrick’s Church Keady for 11:30am funeral Mass. Burial afterwards in the church cemetery.
“Deeply regretted by his children, sisters Elizabeth, Maura, Deirdre, Philomena, Barbara, Antoinette, Jessica and Sheila, brothers Hugh and Stephen, nieces, nephews and the entire family circle and many friends.
“Family welcome visitors to their home on Friday and Saturday from 12Noon to 9pm, house respectfully private outside these hours and on Sunday morning please. On his soul Sweet Jesus have mercy.”
Mr McSorley’s vehicle was involved in a collision on the Tullyah Road, between Belleeks and Newtownhamilton, on Tuesday afternoon.
Up to 40 children had been on board, pupils of St Paul’s High School in Bessbrook.
Multiple medical teams, fire service and police crews attended the scene.
Fortunately, all of the young pupils escaped without any serious injuries.
Quinn Coaches has paid tribute to them and the way in which they acted at such a difficult and frightening time.
Posting on social media, the Newry-based company owners wrote: “Following Tuesday’s tragic events, we would like to sincerely thank the students on board our coach for their bravery, calmness and quick thinking in the moments after the incident.
“Their courage in helping one another and supporting their classmates showed remarkable strength and compassion.
“We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the parents who responded so quickly and supported their children with such care and composure.
“Our deepest thanks go to the emergency services who attended the scene. Their swift response, professionalism and dedication ensured that help was provided without delay, and their efforts are greatly appreciated.
“Finally, we are profoundly grateful to everyone in our Quinn Coaches team, family, friends, neighbours and the wider community for the overwhelming support, kindness and condolences shown. Your prayers, messages and kind gestures have brought great comfort at this time.
“Please continue to keep John, his family and all those affected in your thoughts and prayers.”
