It comes ahead of an event to mark what would have been her 17th birthday
Police investigating the death of a Co Down teenager in a road traffic accident in July are to return to the scene this week.
Jaidyn Rice died after being hit by a car on the West Circular Road in Bangor on July 8. A 30-year-old man has previously appeared in court charged with causing the death of Jaidyn by dangerous driving. Jamie McCartney also faces charges of driving without a licence or insurance.
Detectives from the PSNI’s Collision Investigation Unit are to carry out scene testing as part of the ongoing investigation.
READ MORE: ‘We can’t let their deaths be in vain’: Mum of Bangor teen killed in crash appeals for change at vigilREAD MORE: New court date set for man charged with causing the death of Bangor teen Jaidyn Rice
The West Circular Road will be closed at its junction between Newtownards Road roundabout and the Springhill flyover on Wednesday, October 1 from 10pm to 2am, to allow for this testing.
In a statement, a PSNI spokesperson said: “Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Collision Investigation Unit, investigating a fatal collision in Bangor in July, are to carry out scene testing as part of the ongoing investigation.
“The West Circular Road will be closed at its junction between Newtownards Road roundabout and the Springhill flyover on Wednesday 1st October, from 10pm to 2am, to allow for this testing. We would like to thank the public for their patience as this testing is carried out.”
Jaidyn’s family are now honouring her legacy as they continue to raise awareness of other victims of road traffic accidents. They are campaigning for improved road safety, including a review of speed limits.
The family are also planning a balloon launch to mark what would have been her 17th birthday. Family, friends and members of the community are invited to gather at Ward Park in Bangor to mark Jaidyn’s birthday with love and remembrance, share memories and send off a balloon on the evening of Wednesday, October 22.
A family spokesperson said: “This gathering is an opportunity for all who knew and loved Jaidyn to come together, share memories, and release balloons in her honour. The event will begin at 6.30pm, with the balloon launch shortly thereafter. Everyone is encouraged to bring a balloon and, if they wish, write a personal message to send up with it.
“All are welcome. Whether you were a close friend or simply wish to show your support, your presence will be greatly appreciated as we mark this significant day in Jaidyn’s memory. Let us come together as a community to celebrate her life and the lasting impact she made on those around her.
“Please help us make Jaidyn’s birthday extra special for her. Help us turn the sky pink for Jaidyn.”
In August, a vigil and memory walk took place in the Co Down city, organised by Jaidyn’s grandmother. It came just days after the former Army cadet’s family travelled to her school to collect her GCSE results.
Families from across Northern Ireland who have lost a loved one to a road traffic accident were invited to join the event. Many held candles and photographs of their loved one to show that they are not a statistic.
Jaidyn’s mum, Elaine, bravely addressed those gathered and said the loss of her daughter’s life and so many others on our roads was “senseless and could so easily be avoided”.
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