Tribute has been paid to a Lochaber man who tragically died in a horror five-vehicle pile-up on a scenic route through the Highlands.
Twenty-three-year-old Matthew Duncan from Fort William was killed after his red Audi RS3 was involved in the crash, which took place on Monday afternoon on the busy A830 Fort William to Mallaig route, close to Fassfern.
The route was closed for more than 10 hours as emergency services carried out investigations at the scene.
A white Renault Clio, black Subaru Impreza, a silver Ford S Max and a Volkswagen Transporter van, which had been parked in a lay-by, were also involved in the incident.
A major emergency services response was deployed after the alarm was raised around 12.45pm, with police and fire crews being joined by four ambulances, a trauma team and two air ambulances.
Fire crews used hydraulic cutting gear as others cooled the vehicle with a hose reel jet to remove one casualty from their trapped vehicle.
Five people were also taken to hospital with “non-life threatening injuries”, with one casualty airlifted to Raigmore Hospital in Inverness. The rest were relayed to the Belford Hospital in Fort William by ambulance.
Yesterday, local councillor Allan Henderson paid tribute to the Fort William man, stating that it was “a sad day for the Lochaber community.”
He added: “My heart and sympathies go out to the family and extended family. It is extremely sad when something like this happens, and especially when you hear of such a young age.
“Any young life lost really is a tragedy, and very often we use that word but this really is a tragedy.
“I wish all those injured a speedy recovery on what is a sad day.”
Road policing sergeant Donnie Mackinnon urged anybody who had seen any of the vehicles prior to the incident to come forward, with dashcam footage from vehicles also sought to assist inquiries.
He said: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected but particularly with Mr Duncan’s family and friends at this difficult time.
“We are continuing to work to establish the full circumstances and anyone who hasn’t yet spoken to a police officer is urged to come forward.
“I would also thank everyone who had their journey affected by the road closure for their understanding and patience.”
Anybody with any information is asked to contact police on 101.
