Gardai are investigating the death of a five-year-old girl who died after being struck by a van in Co Laois earlier today.
The incident happened at St Brigid's place in Portlaoise at 12.20pm this afternoon.
The girl was rushed to the Midland Regional Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
The scene was sealed off while gardai carried out a forensic examination.
Motorists are advised that the road has since re-opened.