Cork man accused of setting off fire extinguishers in city centre store

Armed support unit assisted in man's arrest

Judge Catherine Ryan accepted jurisdiction for the case when informed of the extent of the alleged criminal damage.

Members of the armed support init had to assist in the arrest of a man who allegedly barricaded himself in a store room at the Istanbul Market premises in Cork city and set off fire extinguishers that caused extensive damage.

These were the allegations made by Sergeant John Dineen in the case against Kevin Buckley, aged 26, of 5C Shanakiel Place, Blarney, Co Cork, at Cork District Court.

Judge Catherine Ryan accepted jurisdiction for the case when informed of the extent of the alleged criminal damage.

Sergeant John Dineen outlined the background to the matter which related to the Istanbul Market, 55 North Main St, Cork, on September 22, 2025.

Sgt Dineen said it was alleged that the suspect entered the premises and locked himself in a room before discharging a fire extinguisher. 

"He then barricaded himself into the room.

"The armed support unit had to assist in removing him. He caused extensive damage to stock and the premises had to be cleaned as a result of the discharge.” 

Sgt Dineen said that the fire extinguishers cost €200 each and the clean-up cost was put at €600.

Given the total amount of damage of €1,000 in the alleged incident, Judge Ryan accepted jurisdiction.

The case was adjourned until January 9.

Frank Buttimer solicitor asked for a precis of the evidence in the case to be given to the defence.