Gardai and the Garda Ombudsman are investigating a two-car crash in Co. Kildare this afternoon.

Six people, including two children, were taken to hospital following the collision at Ballagh on the Portarlington to Monasterevin Road, which happened shortly after midday.

All six involved in the collision have been taken to hospital for treatment.

Three occupants of one car, all males in their teens or early 20s, were taken to hospital for treatment on their injuries.

Two were taken to Tallaght Hospital in Dublin with serious injuries - and one has since been transferred to Beaumont Hospital.

The occupants of the second car - a man and two children - a two-year-old boy and 7-year-old girl - were all taken to Tullamore Hospital.

Press Officer with the Garda Ombudsman Lorna Lee says it is thought one of the cars involved in the collision had previously come to the attention of a Garda patrol car earlier this morning.

Gardaí are appealing for witness to the incident to contact them at Kildare Garda Station.