Gardaí investigating two fires in close proximity in Limerick City

GARDAÍ in Limerick are investigating two fires that took place in Limerick City in the early hours of this morning (Saturday July 1). The damaging blazes took place within approximately 450 metres of one another at around the same time.

At around 1am this morning, a large fire at the old Sailor’s Home building on O’Curry Street was attended by Gardaí as well as units from the Limerick City Fire and Rescue Service, the Cappamore Fire Service, and Rathkeale Fire Service.

A spokesman for An Garda Síochána said that no injuries have been reported coming from the blaze and an examination of the scene will take place this morning.

Members of An Garda Síochana and the fire services were observed at the scene shortly before 10.30am this morning.

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The Sailor’s Home, dating back as far as the 1850s, is one of large cultural significance for the city. Historian Dr Paul O’Brien described the scene on Twitter as “social history up in flames”.

Former mayor Daniel Butler said the destruction of the building was “a devastating loss to our beautiful built heritage”, while Labour councillor Joe Leddin said it is “shocking to see the Sailor’s Home building on O’Curry St destroyed by fire. We will have to establish a rebuild fund.”

A statement from David O’Brien, CEO of Limerick Civic Trust, said: “The Limerick Civic Trust were saddened to hear of the tragic fire at the Sailor’s Home on O’Curry Street last night.”

“The Limerick Civic Trust have for many years sought to restore and occupy this beautiful old building. We now wish to work with all parties, the Shannon Foynes Port Authority, their agents, and others to bring this site back to its original glory.”

Meanwhile, approximately 450 metres away from the O’Curry Street fire, Gardaí and fire services also responded to reports of a car fire in the Henry Street/Mount Kenneth area at around 1.10am this morning.

Videos have circulated online of a car burning at the intersection of Henry Street, Mount Kenneth Place, and Lower Hartstonge Street.

It is unknown whether the two fires are connected.

A Garda spokesman said that “investigations are ongoing” into both incidents.