Several people have died and a number of others seriously injured after a head on collision between two cars in Moone, County Kildare.

The crash took place at 3am this morning on the M9 Northbound at Junction 3.

Gardaí said one of the cars was travelling southbound on the northbound carriageway of the M9.

At this point in time, they are not in a position to give details about those who have died in the crash; however, they did confirm details of those who have been seriously injured.

A female driver and a passenger in the front seat of one car, both of whom are in their 30s, have been taken to Tallaght University Hospital where they both remain in a critical condition.

Another passenger in her 20s has also been taken to St Luke’s General Hospital, while a child has been taken to Children’s Health Ireland. Both are in a serious condition.

A section of the M9 from Junction 3 to Junction 4 northbound and southbound will remain closed today while a Garda Forensic Collision examination takes place.

Athy Garda Station has asked for anyone who was travelling in the area between 2 and 3am this morning to contact them. They are especially keen to speak to anyone who has dash cam footage.Se