BREAKING: Firefighter dies after Jenners blaze in Edinburgh
Firefighter Barry Martin has died after being critically injured battling a blaze at the former Jenners department store in Edinburgh on Monday
Last updated 27th Jan 2023
A firefighter has died after being critically injured battling a blaze in Edinburgh's city centre on Monday (January 23).
38-year-old Barry Martin was one of more than 100 crew members who attended the fire at the former Jenners department store.
Four other firefighters who were also taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment and were subsequently released. A police officer was treated for smoke inhalation at hospital and was later released.
Superintendent David Robertson, of Edinburgh Division, said: “Our thoughts are with the family, friends and colleagues of Barry at this very difficult time.
“Our enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.”
Interim Chief Officer Ross Haggart from the Scottish fire and rescue service said: "It is with profound sadness that I confirm, on behalf of his family, that Barry Martin has passed away this afternoon following the serious injuries he sustained during a large-scale fire at the former Jenners building in Edinburgh.
"Barry, who was being treated at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, had been in a critical condition since Monday's fire.
"I speak for the entire Service when I say that we are all devastated by the loss of Barry and our thoughts remain with his family, friends and colleagues at this deeply distressing time.
"Both Barry’s family and the Service have been overwhelmed with the messages of support we have received and we thank everyone for the time they have taken to share these.
“Barry’s family would also like to thank all the medical staff who have cared for him.
"I would now ask that we all allow Barry’s family, friends and colleagues to grieve in private."
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon tweeted to say:
"This is dreadfully sad news. My deepest condolences go to Barry’s family, friends and colleagues. This is a terrible tragedy for all who loved him - but also a reminder of the selfless courage our firefighters demonstrate in the line of duty each and every day."