Three Irish nationals have died in a "devastating" car crash in southern Spain, a minister has confirmed.
The fatal incident, which also left another Irish person injured, occurred in the early hours of Sunday near Malaga.
Spanish authorities reported that two vehicles collided on the A7 motorway at approximately 2.38 am, with one subsequently plunging down an embankment.
Firefighters and officers from the Guardia Civil were among the emergency services dispatched to the scene.
Minister of State and TD from Co Westmeath Robert Troy said he knows one of the families involved and said they received the “absolutely devastating” news on Sunday evening.
“I spoke to them yesterday and needless to say they’re absolutely devastated,” he told RTÉ.
“It’s the worst of phone calls to get, they only went on holidays at the end of last week.”
He added: “Our thoughts are with that family and indeed all families affected and all we can do is hold them in our thoughts and prayers as they come to terms with this great loss.”
He said that the local community was also “devastated” and “saddened” at the news.
The Department of Foreign Affairs said it was providing consular assistance to the families involved.
“The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is aware of this incident in Spain, and is currently providing consular assistance to the families involved.
“The Department does not comment on the specifics of individual cases.”
Authorities in Spain have been contacted for comment.
Read MoreBT and Verizon merge international operations in new global business worth billions
Union under pressure from ‘rising pro-independence tide’ – Mary-Lou McDonald
World Cup sticker frenzy: Panini packs sell out as fans race to fill 980 spots in collectible albums
Families of French skydiving crash victims watched on as aircraft fell to ground
Ukraine war latest: Putin admits ‘problems’ in invasion as he warns of fuel shortages
