A FIREFIGHTER has died after battling a fire at the former Jenners building in Edinburgh.
Police confirmed on Friday evening that Barry Martin, who was 38, passed away at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh.
He was taken to hospital after helping to tackle the blaze in the capital landmark which broke out in the morning of January 23.
Four other firefighters who were also taken to the same hospital for treatment but were subsequently released. A police officer was also treated for smoke inhalation and later released.
Superintendent David Robertson, of Edinburgh Division, said: “Our thoughts are with the family, friends and colleagues of Barry at this very difficult time.
“Our enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.”
Scottish Fire and Rescue also confirmed Martin's passing "with profound sadness".
With profound sadness we can confirm that Firefighter Barry Martin has passed away following the serious injuries sustained during a large fire at the former Jenners building in Edinburgh. Interim Chief Officer Ross Haggart has issued this statement: https://t.co/lzsWyjwvk9 pic.twitter.com/hjbIvdFie2
— Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (@fire_scot) January 27, 2023
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon was among those to pay tribute to the firefighter.
She said: “This is dreadfully sad news. My deepest condolences go to Barry’s family, friends and colleagues.
“This is a terrible tragedy for all who loved him – but also a reminder of the selfless courage our firefighters demonstrate in the line of duty each and every day.”
Martin is the first Scottish firefighter to die while on duty since Ewan Williamson, who died after being injured at the Balmoral Bar in Edinburgh in 2009.
Matt Wrack, general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, hailed Martin as a “dedicated firefighter and a well-loved member of the firefighting community”.
“Like so many firefighters, he put himself at risk to save the lives of others,” he said.
Martin, who was responding to what the fire service described as a “serious and complex” blaze, was one of more than 100 firefighters who were dispatched to the 19th century building on Monday.
Scottish LibDem leader and Edinburgh MSP Alex Cole-Hamilton said he would be "making representations for Barry to be awarded the George Cross posthumously in honour of his extraordinary bravery".
Elena Whitham, minister for community safety, said Scotland was “lucky to have our valued firefighters who every day put their personal safety at risk to protect our communities and save the lives of others” and hailed Martin as a “brave and courageous firefighter”.
