latest | The incident occurred in the Black Ridge View area (Photo: Alan Lewis)

The incident occurred in the Black Ridge View area (Photo: Alan Lewis)

Police in west Belfast have arrested a man after a serious road traffic collision in which three children were struck while playing on the pavement.

The incident occurred in the Black Ridge View area of the city with NI Ambulance Service (NIAS) receiving reports of the collision shortly before 5pm this afternoon.

All three children have been hospitalised.

A NIAS spokesman said: “NIAS despatched three emergency crews to the incident. Ambulance control also tasked the Charity Air Ambulance with HEMS team on board to respond.

“Following assessment and initial treatment at the scene, three patients were taken to Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children.”

A 37-year-old was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences including driving with excess alcohol in breath.

The PSNI added: “A report was received shortly before 5pm that the car, whilst reversing, struck the children, two girls and a boy, as they played on the pavement.

“The children have been taken to hospital for treatment and a 37 year old man has been arrested on suspicion of driving with excess alcohol in breath, causing grievous bodily injury by dangerous driving and failing to stop, failing to report and failing to remain where an accident occurred causing injury. He remains in custody at this time.

“Officers would ask anyone who witnessed the incident or who captured dash-cam or CCTV footage which could of assistance to their investigation to contact police at Woodbourne on 101, quoting reference number 1201 24/08/25.”

The incident occurred in the Black Ridge View area (Photo: Alan Lewis)

The incident occurred in the Black Ridge View area (Photo: Alan Lewis)

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West Belfast Councillor Micheal Donnelly said: “A road traffic incident has taken place in Blacks Ridge. Our thoughts are with everyone involved. Police will be on the scene for some time and we ask the public to fully cooperate with their investigation.

“Again, our thoughts are with everyone involved.”