Firefighters in Buncrana have been praised as heroes for saving five people from a fire in Buncrana last night.
Councillor Jack Murray says that a tragedy was averted when four adults and a child were safely evacuated from their apartment above the Bella Forno (Town Clock) restaurant.
The emergency was reported shortly after 1am this morning.
A number of the occupants were taken to Letterkenny University Hospital for treatment to possible smoke inhalation, but no major injuries have been reported thanks to the quick actions of the fire service.
Gardaí continue to examine the cause of the blaze, which was confined to one room within the building.
At this point, investigators say the fire is unlikely to have been started maliciously.
Speaking this afternoon, Cllr Murray said: “Had it not been for the professional and extremely brave actions of local members of our fire brigade then we’d be reflecting on a horrendous tragedy this morning.
“Thankfully those men were able to bring 5 people to safety and Im hopeful that they’ll make a full recovery.
“Our firefighters were recently forced to take industrial action for better conditions but last night they really showed their true value.
“Lads, on behalf of everyone in this community- thank you!”