Gardaí have launched a murder inquiry into the death of a motorcyclist in Co Carlow last month.
Tom Connors, from Bunclody in Co Wexford, died in a hit-and-run incident involving a car and his motorbike on the night of 24 April in the Sandbrook area of Ballon, Carlow.
The car involved was found burnt out at the location and the occupants of the car failed to remain at the scene.
It is understood the 35-year-old motorcyclist had recently absconded from an open prison.
Gardaí have confirmed that following extensive investigations - including technical examinations and a post-mortem examination on the deceased - a murder investigation has started under the direction of a senior investigating officer from the incident room at Carlow Garda Station.
A family liaison officer has been appointed and is keeping the family of the deceased updated on the investigation, in addition to providing support.
Gardaí are continuing to appeal to any person who can help them with their investigation to come forward.
In particular, they are appealing for assistance in tracing the movements of a dark grey Volkswagen Passat CC, with Northern Irish registration plates and partial registration OHZ.
The car travelled across the M1 toll bridge at around 8pm on Tuesday 23 April and then travelled to the Ballon area of Carlow on the evening of the incident.
Gardaí are appealing to anyone in the environs of Ballykealy, Ballon, Rathoe and Sandbrook who may have seen the car on either Tuesday 23 April or Wednesday 24 April to come forward.
Gardaí are also looking to trace the movements of a black Honda CBR motorcycle - partial registration 03 WW - in the Sandbrook area on the evening of the incident.
Anyone with information in relation to the incident is urged to contact Carlow Garda Station at 059 913 6620, or any garda station.
