President Shocked By 'Terrible Tragedy' in Creeslough.

Saturday, 8 October 2022 11:16

By Ross Lindsay

Seven confirmed dead following explosion.

President Michael D Higgins has expressed his 'shock' at the tragic circumstances in Creeslough.

Seven people have been confirmed dead following yesterday's explosion at an Applegreen garage in Donegal.

Gardai confirmed the death toll this morning - adding that eight people have been taken to hospital, and a search and recovery operation is now continuing.

It's thought the blast came from an apartment attached to the garage - trapping many people underneath rubble.

The President described the incident as a 'terrible tragedy' and has extended his sympathies to family members who lost loved ones.

He also paid a 'special tribute' to members of the local community and emergency services who are attending the scene.

Applegreen has released a statement following the explosion.

Co-founder Joe Barrett described it as a 'dark day' for the wider Applegreen family.

He says they've been working with their local partners in Creeslough since 2014, and are providing 'assistance and support' locally.

The fuel retailer boss extended his 'deepest sympathies' to families and friends of the deceased and thanked emergency services and first responders.

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