5 Irish students have been killed after a balcony collapsed in Berkeley, California.
It happened near the University of California at around 8 o'clock Irish time.
UP to 9 more students have been seriously injured.
President Michael D Higgins has issued a statement offering his condolences on what he called the "terrible loss of life".
The President said his heart goes out to the families and loved ones of all those involved.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan has described the incident as a "dreadful accident" and has activated his Department's Consular Crisis Centre to help the families of the victims.
An emergency response line has been opened - anyone with concerns about friends or family in the region, should call
01- 418 0200.
Holly Kwan is a a reporter KBCS Radio in Berkerley - she's at the scene
