A frightening incident unfolded in Drogheda, County Louth, after four children, including a baby were saved from a fire in a building where asylum seekers were staying.
The fire broke out on Friday night. Gardaí (Irish police) said they were alerted around 20:15 local time when the fire service reported the blaze. The flames were later brought under control.
According to Irish broadcaster RTÉ, five people in total were pulled from the top floor of the building, and several of them were taken to the hospital for medical checks.
“Extremely dangerous act,” says GardaíIn an update released Saturday evening, Gardaí stated that earlier reports suggested fireworks may have caused the fire, but current findings point to a deliberate act.
“Investigations by An Garda Síochána to date indicate that the fire was started intentionally by an unknown individual or individuals,” a spokesperson confirmed.
The statement added, “This was an extremely dangerous action that put the lives of residents including children at risk.”
All occupants were safely evacuated, and some were taken to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital for assessment. Gardaí have now opened a full investigation into the attempted arson.
Justice Minister calls it ‘deeply disturbing’Earlier on Saturday, Ireland’s Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan revealed that fireworks were thrown into the property, starting the fire and placing lives in danger.
He said it was “a terrifying ordeal for the women and children living there,” adding that new accommodation is now being arranged for those affected.”
There will be serious consequences for those responsible,” he vowed.Ireland’s prime minister (Taoiseach) Michéal Martin also strongly denounced the incident.
“Putting vulnerable families, including young children, at risk is abhorrent and has no place in our society,” he said.
“Our thoughts are with those affected by this horrifying experience.”
The scene has since been examined, and a senior officer is leading the investigation from Drogheda Garda Station. Gardaí are calling for anyone with information to come forward.
