The boy had been walking with his mother and five siblings when they were struck by a car on the Loughill Road.
Jayne Dunlop said: “This is an extremely sad time for the family involved and my thoughts are with them at this devastating time.
“This tragic accident has sent shockwaves through the community and will be an extremely difficult time for all who know the family. I hope the support measures put in place will lend some comfort in the coming weeks.
“The death toll on our roads is continuing to grow and we all must do what we can to improve road safety. I would urge all road users to be vigilant of others – especially young children – and take extra caution during the dark mornings and evenings.”