Updated: 11am. Additional reporting by Olivia Kelleher.
Two people have died in a house fire in Cork city.
Emergency services were alerted to the fire on Lower Glanmire Road on Mayfield at about 11.15pm on Thursday.
The bodies of a man in his 80s and a woman in her 70s were recovered after the blaze was brought under control.
We currently have units dealing with a fire on Lower Glanmire Road.
The road is currently closed, please avoid the area ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/KSbUtlcJ7C— Cork City Fire Brigade (@CorkCityFire) April 4, 2024
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Their bodies have been taken to Cork University Hospital for post-mortem examinations.
Motorists have been advised to use alternate routes on Friday as restrictions have reduced traffic to one lane.
Second Officer with Cork City Fire Brigade Victor Shine told Cork’s 96FM that emergency services received multiple calls about the blaze.
“The crews responded and were there very quickly, but at that stage, flames were coming out through the windows at the front of the building and through the roof as well,” Mr Shine said.
He explained that firefighters worked to get the fire under control and protect the adjoining properties, and that due to the intensity of the fire, it took some time before the victims’ bodies could be recovered.
“It was extremely hazardous, but we were conscious that there was potential of people being in the building, but the nature and the extreme heat and intensity of the situation made it very difficult.
“An intensive search was carried out and the two casualties were located close together.”
“It was after one o’clock this morning that the casualties were identified in the building,” Mr Shine said, extending his sympathies to the family of the deceased.
He added that traffic restrictions in the area remain in place and the building is currently being made safe, particularly ahead of the arrival of Storm Kathleen this weekend.
Commenting on the incident, Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork Ken O’Flynn said he was “deeply saddened” to hear of the two deaths.
“My heart goes out to all those affected by this devastating incident. Please accept my deepest sympathies during this difficult time.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the people of lower Glanmire Road as they navigate through this challenging period.
“May those impacted find strength and comfort in the midst of this tragedy, and may they feel the support and compassion of their community,” Cllr O’Flynn said.
Gardaí have appealed for anyone with information in relation to the incident to contact Mayfield Garda station on 021- 4558510, the Garda confidential line 1800-666 111 or any Garda station.
