Flat fire 'not suspicious'

A flat fire which claimed the life of a woman in Downpatrick started in the bedroom, it was revealed today.

Firefighters who broke into the first floor flat on Oriel Drive found 33-year-old Lorraine Smyth unconscious in the kitchen. Despite attempts to resuscitate her, Ms Smyth, who was unemployed and from the area, died later in hospital.

A man who managed to escape the Tuesday night blaze was treated in hospital for smoke inhalation. Police, who were initially examining a possible criminal motive, tonight confirmed they were no longer treating the fire as suspicious.

The Fire Service said neighbours tried battle their way through the flames to rescue the woman but were beaten back by thick smoke.

Downpatrick Fire Station Commander Brian Irvine described the blaze as “intense and fast developing”.

He said a hard-wired smoke detector in the hall of the property had not been working but added it was unclear whether such a device would have made a difference given how quickly the fire took hold.

Three appliances and 20 fire officers were on scene at the height of the blaze.

“The fire officers are pretty upset,” said Mr Irvine.

“They pride themselves on protecting their community, they are local guys who live in Downpatrick.

“They put themselves in there and did everything they possibly could but unfortunately this time it was in vain.”

Sinn Féin councillor Liam Johnston praised the efforts of all those who tried to save Ms Smyth.

“This is an awful tragedy for the Smyth family and the whole community offers sympathy to them,” he said.

“I would like to thank the Fire Service for their speedy response and the local people who tried to save her. They have to be commended by everyone.”

Local SDLP councillor Colin McGrath said: “On behalf of the council I would like to pass my sympathies to the victim’s family after this tragic event.

“I would also commend the Fire Service for their diligent and professional service .

“This community owes them a great debt for the risks they continue to take on our behalf. The danger they expose themselves to is incredible.”

Police asked anyone who was in the area at the time of the fire to come forward.