AN OFF-DUTY garda followed and apprehended two young men who were trying to flee the scene of a serious car crash in Clare yesterday.

The garda was a short distance away from the Gort Road incident in Ennis when he saw the occupants of one of two cars involved leaving on foot at about 10pm.

He followed from Sheils roundabout and apprehended them a short distance away. The 19-year-old and 25-year-old were subsequently arrested. They were treated for minor injuries and are currently being held at Ennis garda station.

A pedestrian was seriously injured during the crash. A man in his 40s, he was taken by ambulance to University Hospital Limerick where his injuries are understood to be life-threatening.

The occupants of the second car – two women in their 60s – were also taken to hospital. Their injuries are not life-threatening.

The forensic team has examined the road and it has since been reopened to traffic.

An appeal for witnesses has been issued, with anyone with information asked to contact the local station on 065 684 8100 or the confidential line on 1800 666 111.

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