More than 100 firefighters tackle Omagh industrial fire as casualty airlifted

By Claudia Savage (Press Association)

One person has been airlifted to hospital as firefighters tackle a major blaze at an industrial estate in Co Tyrone.

Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) said more than 100 firefighters and 15 engines attended the incident in the Bankmore Road area of Omagh, after receiving a call around 7am on Wednesday morning.

They advised local residents to keep windows and doors closed, and avoid the area during ongoing firefighting operations.

In a statement, an NIFRS spokesperson said: “Firefighters are currently in attendance at a large fire at a commercial premises at Doogary West Industrial Estate on Bankmore Road, Omagh.

“The initial call was received at 7.19am this morning.

“There are currently 15 Fire Appliances, over 100 Firefighters, an Aerial Appliance, a High Volume Pump, 2 Water Tankers and a Command Support Unit in attendance. The incident is ongoing.

“One casualty was treated by Firefighters at the scene and transferred to the care of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and transported to hospital via Northern Ireland Air Ambulance.”

Sinn Fein MP for West Tyrone Orfhlaith Begley said her thoughts are “with the individual injured due to a fire that has taken place in Boyd Bedding”.

“I want to commend the emergency services and air ambulance for responding swiftly to this incident. There are currently 10 fire engines deployed to the scene of this incident,” she said.

“I would ask motorists to avoid the Bankmore Road which remains closed at this time.

“I am thinking of all those impacted by this incident and hoping they make a full and speedy recovery.”

West Tyrone DUP MLA Tom Buchanan also expressed concern following the incident which he said involved “a reported dust explosion”.

“I want to pay tribute to the swift and professional response of the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service and all emergency personnel who worked to bring the situation under control,” he said.

“My immediate thoughts are with everyone affected by this incident.”

The fire broke out at Doogary Industrial Estate. PICTURE: ÓRFHLAITH BEGLEY