Families displaced after two homes destroyed in Greenisland fire

The devastating scene of the blaze on Sunday morning in Greenisland. (Images: Conor MacAuley, RTE)

Families were forced from their homes after a major fire tore through a row of properties in Greenisland, destroying two houses and damaging two others.

Around 45 firefighters were sent to Knockleigh Walk after Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service received its first emergency call at 12.13am on Sunday, July 12.

At the height of the incident, flames had spread across a number of houses and involved several oil tanks and a shed.

Major firefighting operation launched

Six fire appliances, a Command Support Unit and an aerial ladder were deployed as crews worked to bring the blaze under control.

Five firefighting jets were used alongside an aerial water tower during the operation.

Some residents had to be evacuated from their properties as firefighters tackled the spreading fire.

NIFRS previously confirmed that two homes were completely destroyed, with damage caused to a further two properties.

Community supports displaced families

A NIFRS spokesperson said:

“Some residents had to be evacuated from their properties, and our thoughts are with those who have been affected.

“NIFRS would like to thank local partner agencies and the community for their help in support of the displaced families.”

The incident was among 151 operational call-outs attended by firefighters across Northern Ireland between 6pm on July 11 and 2am on July 12.

During those eight hours, NIFRS received 303 emergency calls, with 54 of the incidents linked to bonfires.

Councillor says thoughts are with displaced families

Alliance Party Knockagh councillor Aaron Skinner said his thoughts were with everyone affected by the overnight fire, particularly those who had been forced from their homes.

He said:

“Thinking of everyone affected by the house fires in Greenisland overnight.

“Losing your home, or seeing it badly damaged, is something no one should ever have to go through. I hope everyone involved is safe, and I’m thinking especially of those who have been forced from their homes.

“A huge thank you as well to the firefighters and all of the emergency services who responded overnight.”

Fire thought to have started accidentally

NIFRS said the most probable cause of the Knockleigh Walk fire is believed to have been accidental.

Investigations remain ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the blaze.

Locally, it is reported that embers from a nearby Eleventh Night bonfire were carried by a strong breeze and may have caused the devastating blaze.

The fire left families displaced during one of the busiest nights of the year for the emergency service, with community organisations and partner agencies assisting those affected.