One woman dead and another badly hurt after being hit by train

One woman is dead and another badly hurt after they were hit by a train in Co Sligo.

They were struck in Ballysadare on Wednesday by the 3.05pm service from Sligo to Connolly Station in Dublin.

The body of the dead woman, who was in her 40s, is still at the scene.

The other woman, who is in her 20s, is being treated at Sligo University Hospital for serious injuries.

Rail service has been disrupted. The train involved cannot be moved until permission has been granted by gardai.

A hundred people initially stuck on board have now disembarked for a bus service, officials said.

The coroner and specialist crash investigators have been alerted to the collision.

The Sinn Fein TD for Sligo-Leitrim, Martin Kenny, said his thoughts are with those affected.

“I want to extend my sympathies to the family, friends and community of the lady who has tragically lost her life this evening in Sligo,” he said.

“I am sure the people of the north-west will join me in extending our thoughts to the young lady who was also seriously injured in this collision as she is treated for serious injuries this evening in Sligo University Hospital.

“I want to commend the quick action of our emergency services in attending the scene so promptly this evening.”

Independent TD for the area Marc MacSharry said he has been left shocked by “this horrific and tragic accident”.

He said his thoughts and prayers are with the family of the women, as well as Irish Rail staff and the passengers.