Man, 20s, killed in single-vehicle Westmeath collision as Gardai close major road and issue 40-minute witness appeal

A MAN in his 20s has died after a single-vehicle collision in Co Westmeath overnight.

The crash occurred on the N4 at Ballinafid in Westmeath shortly after 12.50am.

Emergency services rushed to the stretch between Mullingar and Rathowen.

However, the young man was pronounced dead at the scene early this morning.

Gardai have now confirmed “investigations are ongoing” following the crash

A post-mortem is due to be carried out his body over the coming days.

The stretch of road remains closed this morning as a technical examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators is carried out.

Transport Infrastructure Ireland warned today: “Road closure due to an incident. All lanes affected.

“Delays to your journey are likely to occur. Please consider a different route or start time for your journey.”

And in a statement today garda investigators appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

Gardai are particularly interested in speaking to those who may have dashcam footage from the stretch last night.

A spokesperson for the force has revealed the crucial 40-minute window being investigated.

They said in a statement: “Gardai are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision to come forward.

“Road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling on the N4 near Ballinafid, Co. Westmeath between 0:30am and 1:10am on Sunday 15th March 2026 are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Mullingar Garda Station on 044 938 4000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.”