Shortly before 11am a 4×4 vehicle left the road and struck a ditch on the R585 at Shanlaragh near Dunmanway. The driver and sole occupant of the 4×4, a man in his 70s, was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later.

His body has since been removed to the mortuary at University Hospital Cork. An examination of the vehicle and crash site was carried out by Garda forensic collision investigators and the local Coroner has been notified. Investigating Garda say the results of a post-mortem examination will determine the course of a Garda investigation into the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Clonakilty Garda Station 023-8821570 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111.