The road is closed for a forensic examination and diversions are in place.

Local diversions are in place, with motorists warned to expect delays

Previous plans to upgrade the road with a bypass of Knockcroghery were suspended last year by Transport Infrastructure Ireland.

The site was excavated during an archaeological dig between 2015 and 2016 and the earliest in situ burial discovered was that of an older female who dated back to AD 428 to 601.

Plans for a new road on the 14km route were shelved last year by Transport Infrastructure Ireland.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who was travelling on the N61 between 5am and 6am last Friday and who may have dash-cam footage to contact them.

Separately, motorists are being warned to drive with caution due to heavy downpours of rain across the west, with a rain warning in place until tonight.

A portion of the N5 between the N61 Tulsk junction and R361 junction in Frenchpark will be closed from the 10th of July to the 28th of July.