A COMMUNITY in Co Monaghan are in shock following the death of an elderly priest in a road collision with a lorry.
Fr Joseph McCluskey, 78, died in a road collision between a car and a lorry in Co. Monaghan last night.
The incident happened on the N2 between Castleblayney and Carrickmacross near McCaughey's filling station at around 5pm.
Fr McCluskey was pronounced dead at the scene.
The lorry driver was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
In a statement, Killanny Ladies Gaelic Football Club said: "The community of Killanny is in great shock and sadness after hearing the news of the sudden passing of our priest Fr Joe McCluskey in a tragic road accident this evening.
"Fr Joe was held in high esteem in our parish.
"Ar Dheis dé go raibh a ainm naofa."
Mass will be held in memory of Fr McCluskey at 9.20 this morning in St.Endas Church, Killanny.
A Garda spokesman said: “The road is currently closed to traffic in both directions as Gardaí and emergency services continue to examine the crash site.
“The road is expected to remain closed overnight and local diversions are in place.
“Anyone with information is asked to contact Carrickmacross Garda Station 042-9690190 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111.”
