Three adults killed and four children seriously injured in road collision in Co Tyrone

The head-on collision occurred on a stretch of road between Cookstown and Dungannon shortly before 3.30pm.

Two of the deceased were in one of the cars with four children.

The third adult who died was in the second vehicle, according to RTÉ News.

The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service said it sent two rapid response teams and several emergency crews after receiving a 999 call at 3.29pm following reports of a two-vehicle collision.

A large section of the Dungannon Road is currently closed as forensic accident investigators examine the scene.

Four casualties, believed to be children, were taken to the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children while a woman was also rushed to the Royal Victoria Hospital. She is believed to have suffered non-life threatening injuries

A large section of the Dungannon Road has been closed and the PSNI said it is likely to remain closed for some time.

Forensic accident investigators are trying to determine the cause of the collision but the roads in the area were very slippery there today as temperatures plunged according to RTÉ News.

SDLP MLA Patsy McGlone expressed shock following the fatal collision.

“The community is devastated this evening following news of a fatal collision on the Dungannon Road,” he said.

"This is the worst possible news any family could receive but particularly at this time of year.

“My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected at this incredibly difficult time.”