Two dead and three in hospital following Co Monaghan crash

Two people have died and three people are in hospital after a serious collision in Co Monaghan.

Of the three people taken to hospital, two are in a critical condition.

It is understood that some of the people involved were travelling to a secondary school "Debs" ball.

The incident took place on the N54 in Legnakelly (Clones to Smithborough road) at around 6.45pm on Monday evening.

Gardai said the bodies of the two victims remain at the scene, as well as a vehicle.

The road has been closed overnight.

Local councillor Richard Truell told the PA news agency: "It's tragic, the community is shocked.

"We can't get our heads around what's happened because two young lives have been lost.

"Our thoughts and prayers have to go to their families."

Cavan-Monaghan TD Matt Carthy said it was "horrendous, heart-wrenching" news and said the prayers of everyone in Co Monaghan is with the families affected.

"A moment of joy and celebration for these young people has turned into a lifetime of devastation for those who loved them," he said on Twitter.

The local youth club in Clones remains open until 11.30pm on Monday to offer support to students.