TWO PEOPLE WERE killed, and two others were injured in a crash in Co Louth on Thursday afternoon.

The collision, which involved two cars, occurred on the R173 at The Bush shortly before 3.10pm.

A male driver and female passenger, both aged in their 70s, were pronounced deceased at the scene.

Their bodies were taken to Louth County Hospital where post-mortem examinations will take place.

The coroner has been notified and a Garda Family Liaison Officer has been appointed to support the family of the deceased.

A man driving the second car and a female passenger, both aged in their 30s, were airlifted to Beaumont Hospital and the Mater hospital in Dublin for treatment of serious injuries.

The road has since been reopened.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have been travelling on the R173 between Dundalk and Carlingford between 2.30pm and 3.30pm on 16 July.

Road users who may have camera footage (including dash cam or mobile phone recordings) are asked to make this available to investigating gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dundalk Garda Station on (042) 938 8400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.