A MALE PASSENGER aged in his 40s has died this evening after a two-vehicle collision near Mallow, Co Cork.

The incident occurred at around 6.40 pm tonight, when the car the victim was travelling in collided with another vehicle on the N20 between Buttevant and Mallow.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The two drivers of the cars – both men – have been taken to hospital, where their injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

This section of the N20 has been closed, while Garda Forensic Collision Investigators examine the scene.

Diversions are in place between Mallow and New Twopothouse, and are expected to remain overnight.

This evening’s incident brings to 177 the number of people killed on Irish roads so far in 2014 – seven more than at the same time last year.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to call them at Mallow Garda station on 022-31450, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800-666-111, or to contact any Garda station.