Man dies after road accident in the US

A YOUNG Drumbo man who “chased his dream” by living in America was buried yesterday after tragically dying in California.

Tributes to 22 year-old Benjamin Davis, a former Instonians Rugby Club player, described him as a “real gentlemen” who was aways smiling.

Benjamin was reported to have been seriously injured in a road traffic collision in San Diego before dying in hospital last Wednesday.

A service of thanksgiving was held at St Patrick’s Parish Church in Drumbeg.

Benjamin was a former pupil of Royal Belfast Academical Institution (RBAI).

He was the second of the school’s former students to have died accidentally within hours of each other.

Electrician Matthew Campbell (24), from Armagh, died in a tree fall during Storm Ali.

RBAI principal Janet Williamson described Mr Davis as a “model student”.

“Benjamin was very approachable young man, a very personable and well-liked pupil,” she added.

“He was definitely a role model and a very generous and kind young man.”

RBAI paid tribute to both former students by lowering the school flag to half mast last Thursday.

Benjamin’s parents, Tim and Scarlet, spoke of their pride and love for him as they issued a heartfelt tribute on the Instonians Facebook page.

It said: “Sadly Benjamin has passed away in America. He came over here chasing a dream and he got to live it for a short but amazing time.

“Everyone that knew him knew how happy he was here. He was working and living where he loved.

“He never saw the dark side to any situation and always had a smile on his face.”