A 48 year old woman has been killed in a crash in county Laois.
It's understood a man in his 40's was also seriously injured in the crash that happened on the N80.
Gardaí and Emergency Services were called to the scene of a two car collision at Ballickmoyler at around 10pm.
The woman was the driver of one of the cars and died at the scene.
The driver of the second car,was taken by Ambulance to Tullamore Hospital. His injuries are understood to be serious.
The stretch of road between Ballickmoyler and the townland of Coolhenry, where the accident happened, remains closed this morning and local diversions are in place.
Forensic collision investigators will examine the crash site later this morning and the local Coroner has been notified.
Gardai in Portlaoise are appealing for witnesses.
