Former journalist Austin Hunter killed in Persian Gulf

The former journalist and broadcaster Austin Hunter has been killed in a road accident in Bahrain.

The former editor of the News Letter who was from west Tyrone, was struck by a car on Saturday evening..

The First Minister Arlene Foster tweeted on Sunday morning:  “Shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the death of Austin Hunter; held in the highest regard by all who knew him. Deepest sympathy.”

Shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the death of Austin Hunter; held in the highest regard by all who knew him. Deepest sympathy.

— Arlene Foster (@DUPleader) December 4, 2016

The Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness also paid tribute to Mr Hunter on social media.

Sad to learn of the death of former @BBCRadioFoyle journalist Austin Hunter.A v good journalist & nice man.My sympathy to his wife & family.

— Martin McGuinness (@M_McGuinness_SF) December 4, 2016

The Economy Minister Simon Hamilton said he was an ''absolute gentleman who will be sorely missed''.

News Letter editor Alistair Bushe said: “I’m shocked and devastated to hear of Austin’s death".

Ulster Unionist Leader, Mike Nesbitt MLA, paid tribute to Austin Hunter established a deserved reputation for solid, considered journalism.
 
“I admired him very much, both as a professional broadcaster and as a fine human being who was always keener on talking about others rather than himself. My thoughts are with the Hunter family at this shocking time”.

Mr Hunter worked in the media and public relations industry for over 40 years working for the BBC, the Royal Ulster Constabulary and the Orange Order.

Gulf Daily News reporter Ghazi al Shebabi says the investigation into Mr Hunter's death is at an early stage.

"Mr Hunter was hit by a car on Old Avenue in Juffair on Saturday night. An investigation's been launched by the local authorities and what happened exactly''.

Mr Hunter was working In Bahrain for the not-for-profit organisation Northern Ireland Cooperation Overseas when he died.