Gardai in Laois are investigating after a child was killed in a road accident today. 

The five year old was hit by the van in St Brigid's place in Portlaoise at around midday. 

The child was rushed to the Midland Regional Hospital, before being pronounced dead.

Gardai are now appealing for witnesses to the accident to contact them. 

Update: 20.25

Victim was initially reported to be 3 years old.