A significant fire erupted at an industrial estate in Bangor, Northern Ireland, on Friday afternoon, prompting a large response from emergency services. Firefighters from five different stations were dispatched to the scene near Balloo Way, where thick grey smoke was visible over the city.
Police advised the public to avoid the area and keep windows closed due to the smoke. Drone footage showed flames engulfing the roof of a building, and while the cause was not immediately clear, sources suggested a boiler explosion might have been responsible.
Reports indicated the fire started at a car dealership. Emergency services first arrived shortly after 3:30 p.m. and remained on site for at least two hours.
Eight fire crews and police, who cordoned off the area, were involved in tackling the blaze. By Friday evening, the fire appeared to be under control.
Local representatives acknowledged the severity of the incident and expressed concern for the community, noting the fire's central location and the presence of employees in the affected building. The fire also caused disruptions to several bus routes.