Trench collapse at Crossnacreevy, Co Down: rescue under way, two reported dead

RightAmbulance, police and fire crews were called to the Ballygowan Road in Crossnacreevy, Co Down, shortly before 11am on Friday 2 October after a trench collapsed. 1 2 RightIt is understood that earthworks were under way at the time and that multiple people were trapped. 1 2 RightThe Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) said two fire appliances from Knock, one from Carryduff, one from Cadogan and two specialist rescue teams were in attendance, and described the incident as ongoing. 1

RightThe Northern Ireland Ambulance Service said it sent three emergency ambulances and two HART teams, and that no one had been taken from the scene. 1 2 RightThe Daily Mail, in a later report, said it had been reported that two people had died while a number remained trapped beneath the trench, and that firefighters were using specialist equipment to reach them; the quoted officials did not themselves confirm deaths. 2 RightThe Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland told the Belfast Telegraph its inspectors were on site making enquiries and that it would be inappropriate to comment further while they continued. 2

RightThe PSNI said the Ballygowan Road was closed and advised drivers to use another route; East Belfast DUP MP Gavin Robinson said it was shut in both directions, affecting the 512 Ulsterbus service, and that his thoughts were with those caught up. 1 2