A teenager was killed and a second seriously injured in a car crash in Co Leitrim.
The 17-year-old male died after the car he was driving hit a parked lorry at Sheena, Drumkeeran.
His female passenger, also a teenager, received serious injuries and is recovering in Sligo General Hospital.
Officers in Drumkeeran are investigating the crash, which occurred at approximately 10pm.
A garda spokesman said: “The road is currently closed pending an examination by Garda forensic collision investigators.”
The death takes the number killed on Irish roads so far this year to 273.
Last Christmas 18 people were killed or seriously injured over the Christmas period.
Road safety chiefs and gardai have warned motorists to take care while driving over the festive season.
Road Safety Authority (RSA) chief executive Noel Brett said: “While this may be a celebratory time of year for most people, there are 273 families sitting down to Christmas dinner grieving the loss of a loved one as a result of a fatal crash.
“Let’s ensure that no more families are left grieving and that this Christmas is a safe one for all road users.”
Gardai said its traffic corps will be out enforcing drink-driving and speeding regulations over the coming weeks.
The RSA said the main risk factors which could lead to crashes over the Christmas period include speed, alcohol and tiredness as large numbers of people make long journeys.
They are advising motorists to plan ahead for long trips, allow sufficient time, and to take frequent breaks to avoid driver fatigue.
Families and friends of anyone who drives while under the influence of drink or drugs were called on to sit them down and warn of the potential consequences.
Elsewhere, pedestrians and cyclists have also been asked to make sure they are clearly seen by using high visibility clothing and reflective material, particularly if they are travelling on country roads late at night or early in the morning.