Posted: Sep 26, 2007, 12:36 PM CST
B. Telegraph
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Two part-time firefighters were killed today as they tackled a massive blaze in a disused warehouse in Bray, Co Wicklow.
The men, aged 25 and 40, died as they battled to bring the fire under control.
The blaze broke out in the warehouse on the Lower Dargle Road at around 11.30am, and three units of the local fire brigade were dispatched to the scene.
Superintendent Michael Lernihan of Bray Garda station said the men became isolated inside the building during the fire, and that soon after their bodies were found by colleagues.
He said the exact cause of the men's deaths was not yet known.
Post mortem examinations were due to be carried out on their remains at Loughlanstown Hospital this afternoon.
Both the fire service and the Garda€ have launched investigations.
President Mary McAleese offered her sympathies to the families and colleagues of the two firefighters.
A statement from the President's office said she wished to express her sorrow at the deaths and praised their heroism and selflessness in making the ultimate sacrifice to ensure the safety of others.
A spokesman for Wicklow County Council said it would also be investigating the cause of the blaze.
``Tragically, two very brave firemen were fatally injured as a result of this fire and their families are now being contacted,'' the spokesman said.
I pray for their families
