A firefighter has died following a fire at the former Jenners building in Edinburgh.
Barry Martin was rushed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary with serious injuries after the devastating blaze broke out on Rose Street shortly after 11.30am on Monday, January 23.
The 38-year-old from Fife was one of five firefighters who were hurt while attending the incident at the former department store. Sadly, officers have confirmed that Barry passed away on Friday, January 27.
Four other firefighters were also taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment and were subsequently released. A police officer was treated for smoke inhalation at hospital and was discharged, too.
Ten fire engines, including a high reach, were mobilised after the commercial building went up in flames and more than 100 firefighters worked in difficult conditions to bring the fire under control, with police and ambulance services also in attendance. Police Scotland say the cause of the fire is still unknown and enquiries are 'ongoing'.
Interim Chief Officer Ross Haggart said: "It is with profound sadness that I confirm, on behalf of his family, that Barry Martin has passed away this afternoon following the serious injuries he sustained during a large-scale fire at the former Jenners building in Edinburgh.
"Barry, who was being treated at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, had been in a critical condition since Monday's fire. I speak for the entire Service when I say that we are all devastated by the loss of Barry and our thoughts remain with his family, friends and colleagues at this deeply distressing time.
"Both Barry’s family and the Service have been overwhelmed with the messages of support we have received and we thank everyone for the time they have taken to share these.
“Barry’s family would also like to thank all the medical staff who have cared for him. I would now ask that we all allow Barry’s family, friends and colleagues to grieve in private."
The general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union also paid tribute, with Matt Wrack saying: “Everyone in the Scottish and UK Fire and Rescue Service will be devastated by today’s events.
“Our hearts go out to Barry’s family, colleagues and friends, and to all those who mourn his loss. Barry was a dedicated firefighter and a well-loved member of the firefighting community.
“We are very proud that he was a member of our union. Like so many firefighters, he put himself at risk to save the lives of others.
“In due course, we will investigate the events that led to his death. Today, we are grieving for a colleague and a friend.”
Superintendent David Robertson, of Edinburgh Division, added: “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.”
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon posted on social media about the tragic incident, writing: "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."
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar added: "This is absolutely heartbreaking news. My thoughts are with his family and colleagues. His bravery will not be forgotten."
Edinburgh Western MSP Alex Cole-Hamilton has called for the firefighter to be posthumously awarded the George Cross – the highest non-military award of gallantry available. He said Barry's actions had gone "above and beyond the call of duty".
The Scottish Lib Dem leader added: "I will be making representations for Barry to be awarded the George Cross posthumously in honour of his extraordinary bravery. Where we run from danger, those like Barry run towards it, endeavouring to keep us safe.”
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