Almost 2000 pigs estimated dead after farm fire

By Q Radio News

As many as 2,000 pigs have died in a major fire on a Co Down farm last night,

The accidental blaze broke out in a large shed on the Carri-genah  Road in Kilkeel just before 9 o clock last night. 

Four fire appliances from Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue attended the incident at 8:54pm

One man suffered minor burns before the situation was brought under control just before midnight. 

 It is believed that approximately 1500 – 2000 pigs have perished as result of the blaze.

A Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) Spokesperson said: "At 8.54pm on Monday 7 September 2020 Firefighters were called to a fire involving a large farm shed on the Carrigenagh Road in Kilkeel.

"Four Fire Appliances attended the incident- 2 from Kilkeel, Fire Station, 1 from Newcastle, Fire Station, 1 from Warrenpoint Fire Station, along with the Animal Rescue Team, a Command Support Unit and a Water Tanker.

"Firefighters worked in difficult conditions to prevent the fire spreading to adjacent buildings, however, it is believed that approximately 1500 – 2000 pigs have perished as result of the blaze.

"One male casualty suffered minor burns during the incident. The fire was brought under control by 11:50 pm and the cause of the fire is believed to be accidental ignition."