She is in critical condition.
Gardaí believe a woman who was discovered on the side of the road in Mayo on Sunday was not involved in a car accident.
A woman in her late 50s was found unresponsive in the early hours of Sunday morning along the N5 at Cloggernagh, Islaneady, by a passer-by and was brought to hospital where she remains in critical condition.
Gardaí are investigating the events which led to her being so badly injured and establishing what happened as they say the woman has suffered "unexplained" injuries.
It is believed that the woman had endured serious injuries to her upper body.
It is understood that Gardaí now believe she was not hit by a car or that she was a victim of an assault but investigations into the incident are ongoing, according to The Irish Independent.
The scene was initially sealed off to enable examinations to take place.
The discovery of the woman was made at around 4am but it is currently unknown if she had been lying there for some time or had been injured only shortly before she was discovered.
One source told the Irish Independent: “Gardaí are continuing to locate witnesses who may have been in the area at the time to build a clearer picture of what happened here.
“They are also attempting to determine this woman’s movements before she was discovered and where she may have been heading to.
“At this stage there is nothing to confirm any criminal involvement in the matter but inquiries are still being carried out to progress the matter."
Gardaí are hoping that they will be able to speak with the woman in the coming days but this will only be possible if her condition improves.
Gardaí are continuing to appeal for witnesses or anyone who was travelling in the area before or at the time of the incident to come forward with any information.
A spokesman said: “She was taken by ambulance to Mayo University Hospital where her condition is understood to be critical. The cause of her injuries is unexplained at this time and the scene is preserved for forensic examination. Local traffic diversions are in place.
“Investigating gardaí are appealing for witnesses.
“They are particularly appealing to motorists with camera footage, including dash-cam footage, who travelled through the townland of Islaneady on the N5 in the early hours this morning, to make it available to them.
“Anyone with information is asked to contact Castlebar Garda Station on 094 90308200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.”
