Tony Wright – 54-Year-Old Magherafelt Man Tragically Killed in Grange Road Collision, Community in Mourning Following Sunday Afternoon Accident in County Londonderry
Magherafelt, County Londonderry – June 1, 2025 — The town of Magherafelt is reeling with grief and disbelief following the sudden and tragic death of one of its own, 54-year-old Tony Wright, in a single-vehicle collision on Sunday afternoon. The accident, which occurred shortly after midday on Grange Road, a quiet rural stretch just outside the town centre, has left a deep emotional impact on the community that knew and cherished him.
Tony Wright was a well-known figure in Magherafelt, recognized not only for his decades-long presence in the area but also for his unwavering commitment to his work, family, and neighbours. A devoted father, friend, and respected tradesman, Tony’s passing has left a void that many say will be difficult—if not impossible—to fill.
The Incident
According to initial reports from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), emergency services were called to the scene at approximately 12:17 p.m. on Sunday, June 1. It is understood that Tony Wright had been travelling alone in his vehicle when, for reasons yet to be determined, he lost control and veered off the road.
The collision occurred along Grange Road, a narrow, winding rural lane known for its picturesque views and tight bends. The vehicle, a silver Ford Mondeo, reportedly left the roadway and struck a tree, coming to a stop in a field bordering the road. Passersby who witnessed the aftermath immediately contacted emergency services.
Despite the prompt arrival of paramedics, fire crews, and PSNI officers, efforts to save Tony were unsuccessful. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigations Underway
PSNI has confirmed that a full investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash. Officers are appealing for any witnesses or anyone who may have dashcam footage from the area between 12:00 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. on Sunday to come forward. At this stage, no other vehicles are believed to have been involved.
A spokesperson for the PSNI issued the following statement:
“We are investigating the circumstances of a single-vehicle road traffic collision on Grange Road, Magherafelt, which tragically claimed the life of a local man. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who may have relevant footage is urged to contact us.”
The road remained closed for several hours on Sunday afternoon while collision investigators examined the scene. Diversions were put in place, and local traffic was advised to avoid the area until the roadway was reopened in the early evening.
Community Reaction
The news of Tony Wright’s death spread quickly through Magherafelt, a town where news travels fast and where personal connections run deep. Social media platforms were soon filled with tributes from friends, neighbours, and former colleagues, each expressing shock, sorrow, and fond memories of the man many simply knew as “Tony from up the road.”
“He was one of the good ones,” said Mary Donnelly, a long-time neighbour. “Always ready to help. Always had time for a chat. He’d cut your grass in the summer if your mower was broke. That was Tony. A genuine soul.”
Local parish priest Father Seamus Doherty paid tribute during Sunday evening mass, calling Tony “a man of steady faith, quiet strength, and limitless kindness.” The parish plans to hold a candlelight vigil later this week in Tony’s memory.
The local GAA club, with which Tony had volunteered as a groundskeeper and equipment manager for nearly 15 years, released a statement describing him as “a pillar of our community, whose contributions went far beyond the pitch.”
“Tony was always first to arrive and last to leave,” said club chairman Patrick McKenna. “He never wanted credit, never asked for thanks. But we owe him both.”
A Life of Quiet Dedication
Tony Wright was born in 1971 in Magherafelt, the youngest of four siblings. He attended Rainey Endowed School and later trained as a carpenter, a trade he continued with pride throughout his life. Known for his meticulous craftsmanship and honest dealings, he built a reputation as one of the area’s most trusted tradesmen.
“He built our kitchen extension back in 2004, and I still show it off,” said local resident Kevin Magee. “That’s the kind of legacy he leaves behind—solid, lasting, and done with care.”
Tony married his wife, Margaret, in 1995, and together they raised three children, now adults. He was deeply involved in their lives, supporting their education, sports activities, and early careers with an ever-present sense of devotion.
“He never missed a school play, a football match, or a birthday,” said his daughter Claire, 27. “He was our rock.”
In recent years, Tony had scaled back his work to part-time contracting, spending more time with his grandchildren and taking long walks with the family’s golden retriever, Bramble. He was also a member of the local Men’s Shed group, where he shared his skills and stories with younger generations and fellow retirees.
Road Safety and Public Response
Tony Wright’s death has reignited local calls for increased road safety measures along rural routes like Grange Road. Though not considered a high-collision area, residents have long raised concerns about blind corners, insufficient signage, and the lack of barriers near sharp bends.
“I’ve written to the council about Grange Road twice,” said resident Fiona Mulholland. “It’s beautiful but dangerous. You can’t see what’s coming until it’s too late.”
SDLP Councillor Christine McFlynn has called for a comprehensive road safety audit in light of the incident.
“Every life lost on our roads is one too many,” she said. “We owe it to Tony and his family to ensure that lessons are learned and changes made where necessary.”
Funeral Arrangements
Funeral arrangements for Tony Wright are currently being organized by the family, with assistance from a local funeral director. The service is expected to be held at St. Mary’s Church, with burial to follow at the adjoining cemetery. Details will be announced in the coming days.
Family members have asked for privacy as they come to terms with the loss, but also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support.
In a brief statement released through a friend, Margaret Wright said:
“Tony was everything to us—husband, father, grandfather, friend. He loved this town, and it loved him back. We are heartbroken, but we are not alone. Thank you for holding us in your hearts.”
Final Thoughts
As Magherafelt grapples with the sudden loss of one of its own, the memory of Tony Wright stands as a testament to the quiet heroism of everyday life—a life built on hard work, quiet deeds, and strong relationships.
In the words of his friend and former coworker Sean Mallon:
“He didn’t make headlines when he was alive. He just made people’s lives better. That’s the kind of man Tony was.”
As his family prepares to say goodbye, the town of Magherafelt mourns not just the tragedy of a life cut short, but the beauty of a life well-lived.
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