The bus pictured this morning on the old road between Athlone and Moate.

Gardai examine scene of fatal bus accident

Gardai forensic personnel were this morning conducting an examination of the scene at Killogeenaghan, between Athlone and Moate.

It follows the fatal accident last evening in which a 55-year-old bus driver lost his life.

It's understood Gardai will interview passengers and witnesses as part of their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident near the turn for Castledaly village.

The scene of the bus crash on the R446 between Moate and Athlone. Photo from the Moate side of the incident. Photo: Paul Molloy.

No other vehicle was involved in the incident which saw the bus leave the road.

The driver was taken to Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore where he later died.

Gardaí said some of the 18 passengers on board required hospital treatment for non life-threatening injuries.