GARDAÍ have appealed for the public's assistance after an elderly woman found critically injured on the side of a road in Co. Cork died in hospital.
The woman, aged in her 70s, was discovered lying unconscious in a stream next to Annagannihy Bridge in Rylane, Macroom at around 6.40am this morning.
She was spotted by a passing motorist who saw an arm and a hand extending out of undergrowth by the roadside stream, reports Independent.ie.
The pensioner was taken to Cork University Hospital (CUH) with what were described as "serious injuries", but sadly passed away several hours later.
It remains unclear whether the woman was fatally injured in a fall or if she was struck by a passing vehicle, as well as how long she had been lying by the side of the road.
She was wearing a dark coat and dark clothing when discovered and is thought to have been from the local area.
The scene has been sealed off by investigators to facilitate a full forensic examination of the roadside.
Gardaí have said they are keeping an open mind in the case and a post-mortem will be carried out at CUH shortly.
Detectives are appealing for anyone who may have travelled in the Rylane area between 6pm on Tuesday evening and 6.40am this morning to contact them.
They are particularly keen to hear from anyone whose vehicle is fitted with a dash-cam.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Macroom Garda Station on 026 20590, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.
