GARDAÍ are following a definite line of enquiry after a driver and passenger were left badly shaken following a disturbing hoax.

At approximately 12:30am on Sunday, July 20, the driver was travelling on the R245 at The Pans, Cranford, from Milford towards Carrigart, when they were forced to make an abrupt stop after rounding a bend and striking what initially appeared to be a person laying on the road.

Upon exiting the vehicle, the driver discovered the object was not a person, but a pile of dark clothing stuffed with bags and smeared with what appeared to be ketchup.

Neither the driver nor the passenger sustained injuries, but both were understandably left extremely shaken by the ordeal.

The vehicle sustained damage in the incident.

Gardaí are following a definite line of enquiry in relation to this incident.

“We are anxious to speak with anyone who may have travelled in that area and who may have observed a white car with three young males on board parked up nearby,” a Garda spokesperson said.

“This car is believed to have been in the area around the time of the collision and then immediately left in the direction of Carrigart.”

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have travelled along that route with a dash-cam between Midnight and 1am to make the footage available to them.

“We are very anxious to progress this investigation and we appeal to the males in question to make contact with Gardaí in Milford on 074-9153060.

“As already stated, we are following a definite line of enquiry and all available CCTV is being sought and examined.

“Those involved in this very serious matter are advised to make contact with investigating Gardaí,” the spokesperson concluded.