Tributes paid to top NI businessman who has died in quad bike incident
"Palpable sense of shock" in Co Tyrone community after passing
Last updated 3rd Nov 2017
A Co Tyrone community is in shock after a well-known businessman died in a quad bike incident.
Nishi Ward (45) passed away in the Plumbridge area around 5 o'clock last night.
An Air Ambulance along with rapid response paramedics had been dispatched to the incident.
Tributes were paid today to Mr Ward with Alistair Hamilton, CEO of Invest NI who described him as playing an integral role in manufacturing here.
He added: “I am very saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Nishi Ward. Nishi was a much respected businessman who was instrumental in the global growth of Waste Systems Ltd in Plumbridge and an integral part of Northern Ireland’s manufacturing industry.
“As a valued customer of Invest NI I had the great privilege of getting to know Nishi personally. While he used our business solutions to help his business grow he also gave up his time and participated in our marketing campaigns, helping us to promote the importance of exporting and innovation to businesses across Northern Ireland.
“His commitment to the growth and development of Waste Systems was widely admired and he will be missed by both the business and wider community in the Derry City & Strabane District Council area. We offer our deepest sympathies to his family and business colleagues at this sad time.”
Sinn Féin MLA Declan McAleer said there was a huge sense of shock in Plumbridge at the "tragic death of a well-known local man".
The West Tyrone MLA said: “I have spoken to local people and there is a palpable sense of shock.
“Plumbridge and the Glenelly Valley are close knit communities where everyone knows each other through farming, work and community activities.
"The death occurred earlier this evening so the precise details are still emerging. However, at this stage I want to extend my sympathy and condolences to the dead man's family at this tragic time.”
SDLP West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan said: "The whole community is just in shock as the news comes through that a popular man has been killed in what appears to be an incident with a quad bike.
“I knew the man well and had a meeting with him only last week. His death will be a serious loss to the community and to local people. It’s hard to imagine.
“My thoughts and prayers and those of my entire party are with his family and friends at this tragic time. I know people here in Plumbridge will come together to support them at such a difficult time."