Two people dead after number of workers feared trapped in trench collapse at Co Down site after medics race to scene
TWO people are understood to have died after getting trapped in a “devastating” collapsed trench in Co Down.
Emergency services are at the scene of the serious incident on the Ballygowan Road in Crossnacreevy.
The alarm was raised at around 10:45am this morning, with ambulance crews, police and firefighters scrambled to the scene.
It’s understood earthworks were being carried out in the area where the trench walls, which are formed by the excavation of soil, collapsed trapping a number of people.
Three ambulances and two hazard response teams were sent to the scene but no one was taken from the scene.
DUP MP Gavin Robinson said the incident was “devastating” and confirmed that two people had died.
He said: “Sadly, it has been confirmed that two people have lost their lives following an incident in Crossnacreevy.
“My thoughts are with their families and loved ones at this devastating time, and with the emergency services responding to the incident.”
Alliance MLA for East Belfast Peter McReynolds said the incident was “heartbreaking.”
He said: “My thoughts are with the family and loved ones of those who have lost their lives, as well as the emergency service personnel on-scene who have had to respond to such an unthinkable tragedy.”
The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service said: “Multiple emergency resources were sent including three Emergency Ambulances, and two HART Teams.
“No one was taken from the scene.”
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service confirmed two specialist rescue teams are in attendance at the scene alongside two fire appliances from Knock Fire Station, one from Carryduff and one from Cadogan Fire Station.
A spokesperson added: “Firefighters were called to reports of a rescue incident on Ballygowan Road, Crossnacreevy, Carryduff, Down. This incident is ongoing.”
Northern Ireland’s Health and Safety Executive said they were “aware of an incident at a workplace” in the area.
They said: “We are currently liaising with the emergency services and other relevant agencies.”
Commenting on the rescue operation, DUP MP for East Belfast Gavin Robinson said: “My thoughts are with those who are caught up in this incident.”
The PSNI has warned motorists to “avoid the area” whilst emergency services attend the scene, with Ulsterbus services being diverted due to the ongoing incident.
The Crossnacreevy School, Roselawn and Ryan Park stops are not being served while the incident remains ongoing.
A Translink spokesperson said: “Due to an incident in the Crossnacreevy area, Ulsterbus 512/12 services will divert in both directions via Manse Road – Lisnabreeny Road – Manse Road.”
