Courts / Dublin / Report
Stardust survivor tells of being saved by sister (16)
Summary
During the Stardust fire, Teresa McDonnell, a 16‑year‑old, abandoned her own safety to warn her sister Lorraine that a blaze had started, telling her to get out. Lorraine escaped and later found Teresa's friends, but could not locate Teresa amid the chaos. The family searched hospitals and eventually discovered Teresa's body in the morgue. Lorraine's father died within two years, reportedly overwhelmed by the shock of the loss. Teresa was described by her brother Richard as a fun‑loving, brave young woman who loved animals and considered a career in beauty. The McDonnell family suffered profound grief, with both parents deeply affected, and the tragedy left a lasting void in their lives. The inquest highlighted the personal loss and the enduring impact on the family.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Stardust survivor tells of being saved by sister (16). Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision
When:
- Christmas Other
- 2023-05-12 Publication
Why: Lorraine explained that on the night of the fire, they had gone to the disco separately with their own groups of friends. CNI source report
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