A 62-year-old man and his dog have died following a tragic house fire in Carryduff.
David Marshall has passed away following the blaze which took place shortly after 10am on Tuesday, April 12, at his home on the Manse Road.
He has been described by his family as a "popular local character" with a love for dogs, particularly his poodles Rum and Coke. One of the dogs had passed away a number of years ago.
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The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service were called to the property following reports of a house fire with police closing the junction of the Manse Road and Cadger Road while firefighters dealt with the incident.
Four appliances were sent to the scene. Two from Knock Fire Station and one each from the Cadogen and Central stations.
A NIFRS spokesperson said:The thoughts and sympathies of Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service are with the family and friends of a man who died following a fire on Manse Road, Carryduff.
"On Tuesday 12 April 2022 at 10.17am, Firefighters were called to reports of a fire in a property on Manse Road.
"Two Fire Appliances from Knock Fire Station, 1 Fire Appliance each from Central and Cadogan Fire Stations and the Specialist Rescue Team attended the incident.
"Firefighters wore breathing apparatus and used 3 jets to extinguish the fire.
"Tragically, a man was discovered in the property and was pronounced dead at the scene.
"The fire was under control by 2.10pm and the cause remains under investigation."
Sadly David and his dog died as a result of fire.
A family member of Mr Marshall's has said they are shocked and saddened by the death of the 62-year-old.
They said: "We are all very shocked to hear that David has tragically passed away.
"He was a popular local character around Carryduff and was very passionate about his two black poddles Rum and Coke."
South Belfast Alliance councillor Michelle Guy said: “The community are both shocked and saddened to hear about this awful tragedy. I want to extend my sincere condolences to the loved ones of the man who lost his life, as they struggle to come to terms with this awful news”
Police have confirmed that a man has died as a result of the fire at a property on the Manse Road.
Detective Inspector Bell said: “At approximately 10.20am, police received a report that a fire had started at the property. The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service and Northern Ireland Ambulance Service were also in attendance.
“Tragically one person has been found deceased at the property.”
“An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire and our officers have been in the area conducting enquiries. We would appeal to anyone with information they believe may assist our investigation to call us.
"Anyone with information is asked to call 101, and quote reference number 397 12/04/22.
"A report can also be made online using our non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/."
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