Firefighter Barry Martin dies after blaze at former Jenners department store in Edinburgh | UK News
A firefighter has died after a blaze at a former department store in Edinburgh, Scottish police have said.
Barry Martin, 38, from Fife, sustained serious injuries while fighting a blaze at the historic Jenners building on Rose Street on Monday.
He had been in a critical condition at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh but died today, Police Scotland said.
Four other firefighters who were also taken to the hospital for treatment and were subsequently released.
Two were treated for burns and two for smoke inhalation.
A police officer was also treated for smoke inhalation at the hospital and 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.”
More than 100 firefighters tackled the blaze, which was reported around 11.30am.
Witnesses saw a soot-covered firefighter being helped from the building by colleagues.
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon described the death as a “terrible tragedy”.
“This is dreadfully sad news,” she tweeted.
“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.”
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s interim chief officer said he and his colleagues were “devastated” by the death.
Ross Haggart said: “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.”
Mr Martin is the first Scottish firefighter to die while on duty since Ewan Williamson, who died after being injured at the Balmoral Bar in Edinburgh in 2009.