An investigation is set to get underway to determine how a Bus Eireann coach caught fire in Letterkenny last night.
Fifteen passengers and the driver escaped an Expressway bus moments before it burst into flames at the Dry Arch Roundabout.
The Route 32 bus was departing Letterkenny for Dublin when a fire broke out near the back of the bus.
Passengers reported hearing ‘small explosions’ and seeing smoke enter the cabin before they fled onto the road via a side door. The bus was completely engulfed in flames by 8.30pm.
Emergency services rushed to the scene and the roundabout was closed during the incident.
The fire was brought under control by approximately 9pm and the wreckage was cleared from the road shortly afterwards.
Bus Eireann has responded to say that a comprehensive and thorough investigation will be undertaken to determine the cause of the fire.
“This is an exceptionally rare occurrence in our fleet,” a spokesperson said.
Passengers were accommodated on another vehicle to continue their journey to Dublin.
“Bus Éireann would like to thank the emergency services, our driver and passengers for their rapid and effective response to the situation.”
