A bus driver has died in a crash in Co. Westmeath.
20 passengers were onboard when the bus collided with a ditch, in the townland of Killogeenaghan near Moate, at about 5.30 yesterday evening.
The driver of the bus - a 55-year-old man - was seriously injured. He was taken to Tullamore Regional Hospital and later passed away.
Gardaí say some passengers onboard at the time were hospitalised with non-life-threatening injuries.
Gardaí wish to advise motorists that due to a Fatal RTC between Athlone & Moate, this evening. The road is currently closed and can motorists please use the M6 motorway and avoid the Athlone to Moate Road in both directions.
— An Garda Síochána (@GardaTraffic) January 4, 2023
No other vehicle was involved in the incident.
A technical examination of the scene will be carried out this morning.
Gardaí are appealing for witnesses or anyone with video or dashcam footage to contact them.
