A MAN has been killed in a reported explosion at a homeless shelter in Dublin city this afternoon.
Emergency services rushed to a hostel, located on Little Britain St, in Dublin, following reports of an explosion.
Photocall IrelandGardai have cordoned off the scene on Little Britain St this evening[/caption]
PAOne man was fatally killed in the explosion earlier this afternoon[/caption]
The alarm was raised shortly after 3:30pm following reports of an explosion inside the premises.
It is understood that one man sustained fatal injuries in the incident.
Cops confirmed that residents have been evacuated from the immediate area of the incident and a cordon is in place. There are no reports of any other injuries.
Gardai and Dublin Fire Brigade currently remain at the scene of the incident.
The hostel, located near Capel Street, is operated by the DePaul charity, who confirmed that they are aware of the incident.
A spokesperson said it was a “localised” incident that was “confined to one room” of the building.
They added: “All service users will be evacuated from the building tonight and alternative placements will be found.
“Depaul are working with the DRHE and our NGO partners to ensure no person will be left without accommodation this evening.”
Fine Gael Councillor Declan Flanagan said the explosion this evening was a “terrible tragedy”.
Speaking to The Irish Sun, he said: “I’m very sorry to hear what happened.
“No doubt there will be a full investigation on the matter in due course. My heart goes out to the person who tragically passed away.”
Local traffic diversions have been put in place and road users and pedestrians have been urged to avoid the area, which is between Green Street and Capel Street, as emergency services “deal with an incident.”
In a statement to the Irish Sun this evening, a Garda spokesperson said the precise cause of the explosion is “currently under investigation”.
The Garda Technical Bureau will examine the scene.
Gardai confirmed that the fire services currently have primacy at the scene.
Cops said there is “no further information” available at this time but confirmed that “updates will follow” later today.
A spokesman said: “Gardai and Dublin Fire Brigade are currently at the scene of an incident a residential premises on Little Britain Street, Dublin 7.
“The alarm was raised shortly after 3:30pm following reports of an explosion inside the premises.
“Residents have been evacuated and a cordon and local traffic diversions are in place. Fire Services currently have primacy at the scene.
“No further information is available at this time. Updates will follow.”
Dublin Fire Brigade earlier confirmed that they were attending the scene and urged all traffic to divert away from the area.
Taking to social media, a spokesperson said: Traffic restrictions in place between Green Street and Capel Street as we deal with an incident. Divert if possible.”
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