TWO MEN HAVE died after a light aircraft crashed near Birr in Co Offaly this afternoon.
The pilot, who was in his 30s, and the second man in his 20s were both pronounced dead at the scene.
Gardaí at Birr are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash and the Air Accident Investigation Unit at the Department of Transport has been notified.
Gardaí were notified at approximately 4.50pm today that all contact had been lost between air traffic control and the small airplane. A search began at 6.30pm with the assistance of the Garda air support and other emergency services.
The wreckage of a Cessna Light Training Aircraft was discovered at Clonkelly Upper, Birr, Co Offaly. Emergency services immediately attended the scene, which is currently preserved.
- Additional reporting by Christine Bohan
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