A hero firefighter who suffered critical injuries while tackling a devastating fire at Edinburgh's Jenners building has been named. Barry Martin was rushed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary with serious injuries and is currently in a critical condition following the blaze on Monday.
The 38-year-old, from Fife, was one of five firefighters who sustained injuries while attending the blaze at the former department store on Monday January 23.
Four others were also taken to hospital but have since been discharged, according to Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Two were treated for burns and two for smoke inhalation.
Ten fire engines, including a high reach, were mobilised after the commercial building on Rose Street went up in flames at roughly 11.30am. 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'. Authorities, including one fire appliance, remain at the scene this afternoon and are currently monitoring the building for any potential hotspots.
The east end of Rose Street has been cordoned off between South St David Street and Rose Street Lane North and two nearby businesses also remain closed.
Interim Chief Officer Ross Haggart said: “This was undoubtedly a serious and complex fire. Our thoughts are very much with Barry and his family, and indeed with all of our colleagues who were injured in responding to this incident.
“Barry is a firefighter based in Edinburgh and we ask that everyone please respect his family's privacy at this time. We continue to provide all possible support to our colleagues and their families, as well as all staff involved.
“We are liaising with appropriate partners to ensure a full and thorough investigation is undertaken into this incident.”
Interim Chief Officer Haggart added: “Can I please take this opportunity to thank our dedicated crews and staff for their professionalism in responding to this challenging incident; also to our partners for their support on the ground yesterday.
“And of course our thanks go to the health professionals who provided and continue to provide treatment to our injured colleagues and continue to care for Barry.”
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