Family of 8-year-old 'Dan the Man' pay tribute after his death in Maghera

By Q Radio News

The family of an 8-year-old boy who died after he was hit by a car in Maghera say he will be forever in their hearts.

Daniel Bradley was struck near the service station on the Glenshane Road at around 8pm last night.

James and Janice Bradley said: "Daniel taught us to step into his world. A world filled with challenges and differing perspectives. He taught us to embrace autism and we quickly learned from him that different is not less."

Adding, "We love you. Dan the Man - Forever in our hearts."

The family have shared this video:

Kilronan school, where Daniel was a pupil, has paid tribute in an emotional statement. 

Staff and pupils at Kilronan School in shock after fellow pupil Daniel Bradley was tragically killed after being struck by a car outside Maghera last night. pic.twitter.com/c3yRVROxOM

— Bob Huggins (@BobHuggins13) 21 September 2018

It said: "It was with great shock and sadness that we learned last night of the death of one of our pupils, Daniel Bradley. Daniel was a much loved member of our school community.

"He was lively, full of fun and popular with all who knew him. 

"We extend our deepest sympathy to his parents, sisters, grandparents and wider family circles at this very sad time.

"May we also ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers."

Father Patrick Doherty of Saint Patrick's parish in Maghera is the family's parish priest...

PSNI officers say they would like to hear from witnesses or anyone who may have captured dash cam footage in the area at the time.

Anyone with information can call police on the non-emergency 101 number.