Updated at 9.25pm

THREE WOMEN WHO died in a three-car crash in Co Louth this morning have been named locally.

They were Margaret McGonigle (69), her daughter Mairead Mundy, and a friend Rachel Battles.

Two men were seriously injured in the crash and were removed to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda.

The road collision happened south of Aclint Bridge, Ardee, Louth at around 1am this morning.

The N2 is closed between Ardee and Aclint Bridge to facilitate an examination by garda forensic collision investigators and will remain closed for the day.

Diversions were in place but gardaí are asking motorists using the M1 to divert at Junction 17 for Castleblayney.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to contact Ardee Garda Station on 041 6871130, the garda confidential line on 1800 666 111 or any garda station.

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