Gardai in Mallow, Co. Cork, are appealing for witnesses following a fatal collision involving a tractor and a van this afternoon (Monday, June 4).

The incident occured on the R522 between Buttevant and Liscarroll at approximately 1:00pm.

Emergency services were called to the scene of the collision, involving a van and a tractor drawing a slurry tanker, on the R522 – approximately three miles from Buttevant.

The driver of the van, a man in his late 30s named locally as Patrick McMahon, was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later.

Two passengers in the van – Patrick’s 14-year-old daughter and her 17-year-old friend – were airlifted to Cork University Hospital.

Their conditions are understood to be serious.

It is believed that the occupants of the van were on their way to a beach. The partner of the van driver was following in a car close behind the van and arrived on the scene shortly after the accident.

The driver of the tractor – a male in his late 20s – was not physically harmed. It is understood that the stretch of road where the accident occurred comprises of a series of “bad bends”.

Appeal for information

The crash site is currently being examined by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators and a Garda PSV (Public Service Vehicle) officer.

Local traffic diversions are expected to remain in place until later this evening.

The deceased has been removed to the mortuary at Cork University Hospital for a post-mortem examination and the local coroner will be notified.

Investigating Gardai are appealing for witnesses. Anyone with information is asked to contact Mallow Garda Station on: 022-31450 or the Garda Confidential Line on: 1800-666-111. 

The investigation is ongoing.