Well-Known Northern Irish Journalist Killed In Collision In The Middle East

Austin Hunter (64) was knocked down and killed in a road accident in Bahrain on Saturday.

The former BBC journalist was working in Bahrain for the not-for-profit organisation Northern Ireland Co-operation Overseas when he died, according to the BBC.

Hunter was well-known for his work in both television and radio with the BBC in Northern Ireland as well as with their press office and for his work as media and press director for the Royal Ulster Constabulary.

Tributes to the highly-respected journalist have been flooding in:

Shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the death of Austin Hunter; held in the highest regard by all who knew him. Deepest sympathy.
— Arlene Foster (@DUPleader) December 4, 2016

Deeply saddened by the death of #austinhunter - a superb journalist & a humble human being. I never heard anyone say a bad word about him.
— Paul Clark (@PaulClark_UTV) December 4, 2016

Very sad to hear of the unexpected death of Austin Hunter; a true friend to me while a colleague in @BBCnireland. Condolences to his family
— Alison Comyn (@alisoncomyn) December 4, 2016

Completely shocked to learn Austin Hunter has passed away. One of the finest. A gentleman to the core and a true professional.
— Ken Reid (@KenReid_utv) December 4, 2016

Stunned by my friend Austin Hunter's passing. He became a great PR man, but was always a top class journalist at heart who loved the trade.
— Darwin Templeton (@darwintempleton) December 4, 2016

Shocked and saddened to hear the tragic news about Austin Hunter. A fine journalist and gentleman. Love to Jean, Simon and Rachael.
— Mike Philpott (@mikephilpott) December 4, 2016

In a statement, the Hunter family said they were "absolutely devastated at the loss of a loving husband, father and grandfather".