Natasha Gove, 31, from the Ballyclare area, was fatally injured in a collision involving a van in the Glenariffe area of Ballymena on Saturday. Her stepfather announced her death on Facebook on Sunday, describing the incident as a "great heartache and sadness."
"Tash," as she was known, was a passenger in a Ford Transit Custom van. Her family has requested privacy to grieve the tragedy. More than 200 friends and family members shared messages of condolence, remembering Gove as "lovely," "full of life," and a "great wee character."
One tribute stated, "Tash made everyone smile, always so full of life. Great wee character and will be sadly missed. Thinking of you all." Another commenter recalled, "We knew Tash from a little girl. I am heartbroken for you all. Thinking of you and her mum, her family and the family circle at this very sad time."
Loved ones also described Gove as having "not a bad bone in her body" and being "the most funny loving person." A friend remembered her fondly, saying, "Many a night she had me in tears of laughter playing cards in your kitchen. Condolences to you Claire and family. Rest in peace Tash."
The 41-year-old male driver of the van also died at the scene. He has not yet been named.
Police confirmed they received a report of the crash on Glenariffe Road shortly before 9:10 p.m. on Saturday. Emergency services, including the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, responded. Both occupants of the van were pronounced deceased at the scene. No other injuries were reported.
The Glenariffe Road was temporarily closed but has since reopened. The Collision Investigation Unit is continuing its inquiries and is appealing for any witnesses or individuals with dash-cam or other footage to contact them, quoting reference number 1423 18/07/26.