An investigation is under way after a man in his 20s died following a suspected hunting accident in Co Carlow.
The incident happened in a field around a kilometre south of Leighlinbridge late yesterday evening.
The village of Leighlinbridge, which lies on the River Barrow, is just over 10km south of Carlow Town.
It is understood that the man was hunting foxes with a friend when the incident occurred as night fell.
The man's body has since been removed to University Hospital Waterford, where a post-mortem examination will be carried out.
The scene was preserved today to allow members of the Garda National Technical Bureau carry out a forensic examination.
It is understood that foul play is not suspected, but gardaí have said that their investigation remains at an early stage.
They have also asked for the time and space necessary for their investigation to be carried out sensitively.
Councillor Michael Doran, who lives in Leighlinbridge, said the local community has been left stunned following the incident.
The Fine Gael councillor said: "We woke up this morning to have heard of the tragic news of an accident involving people out hunting last night, and the village here is shocked and saddened at the news that a young man has lost his life.
"From what I understand, the people involved live locally and were well liked and well known in the area, well respected.
"It's just an awful tragedy coming up to Christmas for the family and the friends and everybody involved in the unfortunate incident.
"Obviously, the community is very distressed after what has happened here. The community here will rally around the families and give them whatever support that we can."
