A large Co Down fire erupted at Fusco Vehicle Sales in Bangor, threatening nearby homes and businesses. Consequently, firefighters rushed to the Balloo Industrial Estate on Friday afternoon and battled the flames through the night. Crews finally left the site shortly after 9am on Saturday.
The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service confirmed the fire likely started accidentally. At the height of the incident, crews operated six fire appliances, one aerial ladder, a command support unit, a water tanker, and three officers. They used breathing apparatus, firefighting jets, aerial jets, and unmanned ground monitors to bring the blaze under control.
Local DUP MLA Stephen Dunne praised the emergency teams for their quick response. He explained that their actions prevented more serious damage. “Many local businesses and homes surround the fire,” he said. “This fire could have caused devastating consequences, but our emergency services contained it swiftly.”
Meanwhile, Fusco Vehicle Sales thanked firefighters for protecting their stock and buildings. The company added, “We are amazed at how much of our site remained safe thanks to their work.”
Additionally, the PSNI warned residents to keep windows closed as smoke spread across Bangor. North Down MP Alex Easton praised the crews’ professionalism, noting that they acted decisively under difficult conditions. “I admire the teams working to control the incident,” he said.
Moreover, Alliance MLA Connie Egan highlighted the fire’s scale and its effect on the local community. She said, “The Fire and Rescue Service acted promptly to stop further damage. My thoughts are with Fusco staff, who must feel distressed. I hope no one suffered injuries.”
Authorities thanked the public and local businesses for their cooperation. They also said that investigations continue, though preliminary findings point to an accidental ignition. Residents and workers can take comfort that emergency crews acted efficiently to keep everyone safe.
Overall, the Co Down fire crews demonstrated courage and professionalism. Because of their quick, coordinated actions, the flames did not spread further, and the situation remained under control.
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