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A significant fire that broke out at an industrial estate in Bangor, County Down, is believed to have started accidentally, according to the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS). On Friday evening, the blaze engulfed Fusco Vehicle Sales, situated on the Balloo Industrial Estate, prompting the response of eight fire crews. After extensive efforts to control the situation throughout the night, firefighters completed their assessment by Saturday morning and left the site at approximately 09:20 GMT.
Johnny Fusco, owner of the premises that suffered extensive damage, expressed relief that no injuries occurred during the incident. Despite a structural collapse at the location, Fusco emphasized the safety of all personnel involved: “Everyone is safe so we’re delighted with that. That’s the main thing. Everything’s okay, everyone’s feeling okay.” He also revealed that the company plans to resume normal operations by Monday from a neighboring business and noted that most of the car stock was saved, with only three vehicles lost.
The response to the fire gave rise to a strong sense of community support. Fusco highlighted the outpouring of help and well-wishes, saying, “The amount of messages and things that are still pouring through is heartwarming. We got a lot of support, people rushing to help us move stock. Strangers and also people that we know, family, friends, rushing around to check everybody is okay.” He expressed gratitude toward everyone who assisted and reached out in the aftermath.
Meanwhile, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) advised local residents to avoid the Balloo Way area and keep windows closed due to smoke drifting from the fire. The scale of the blaze was evident with large plumes of smoke visible above the estate, as fire crews applied water from elevated positions to tackle the fire. Safety cordons limited public access to the scene. Local political figures weighed in on the incident, expressing both relief and concern. Democratic Unionist Party MLA Stephen Dunne noted the community’s feelings of “shock and concern” alongside “widespread relief and thankfulness” that no one was harmed, acknowledging the potential severity given the proximity of other businesses and residential areas. North Down MP Alex Easton commended the emergency responders, stating, “I want to pay tribute to the firefighters and all emergency personnel responding in difficult circumstances.” Alliance Party MLA Connie Egan praised the prompt action of the fire service in preventing further damage and extended her sympathies to Fusco’s team, recognizing the distress caused by the event
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