A man in his 70s has been killed in a two-car crash in Co Westmeath.
The incident happened on the N4 at Ballinalack shortly after 3.30pm this afternoon.
His body has been removed to the Midland Regional Hospital in Mullingar.
A female passenger in the car the man was driving and two people travelling in the other car have all been taken to Mullingar for treatment.
One of the three is believed to be seriously injured.
The road has been closed and diversions are in place. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and take an alternative route.
It brings to 18 the number of people killed on Irish roads in December.
Earlier today, the Chief Executive of the Road Safety Authority has described this Christmas on the country's roads as "tragic".
Gardaí are asking witnesses to contact Mullingar Garda Station on 044-9384000, the Garda Confidential line on 1800-666111 or any garda station.
