Strabane: Investigation launched into coffin maker’s blaze
Firefighters are expected to be in attendance for the next number of hours
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service has launched an investigation into the cause of a large fire which completed destroyed a coffin makers premises in Co. Tyrone.
The blaze broke out on Sunday afternoon at O'Doherty and Sons Coffin and Casket manufacturers in Railway Street in Strabane, with reports that it was struck by lightning.
At the hight of the incident around 80 firefighters were dispatched to tackle the fire.
The blaze was brough under control, but one fire appliance remains on scene and it is expected Firefighters will be in attendance for the next while.
A NIFRS Spokesperson said: “One Fire Appliance is currently in attendance at a fire at a commercial premise on Railway Street, Strabane.
"It is expected that Firefighters will be in attendance for the next number of hours. The road remains closed at present. We were called to the incident at 4.10pm on Sunday 4 July 2021.
“At the height of the incident 10 Fire Appliances including 4 Specialist Vehicles, and approximately 80 Firefighters were in attendance.
“Firefighters wore breathing apparatus and used jets and Aerial Appliances to tackle the fire.
“The cause of the fire is under investigation.”
West Tyrone MLA, Daniel McCrossan, said the fire has left the community in shock.
He said: “The Fire in Strabane yesterday was absolutely devastating and has caused huge amount of shock in the wider Strabane community.
“Obviously our first thoughts today are with the O'Doherty family who have been on Railway Street Strabane for over 113 years.
“A business that has spanned generations of O'Doherty's and a business that has employed generations of families in this town.
“There are 27 employees currently working for O’Doherty’s and sons Limited.
“They are devastated today as well.
“Obviously, this is a very difficult time for everyone involved but we will do all we can to support the employees going forward.”