Courts / Dublin / Report

Senior fireman tells inquest there was 'something' in Stardust that contributed to fast spread of flames

Summary

During the 2023 inquest into the 1981 Stardust nightclub fire, retired Dublin Fire Brigade senior firefighter William McQuaid described the blaze as an "accelerated fire" that spread rapidly due to an unknown combustible material in the building. He recounted receiving a call that a major accident plan was in force and that the entire state's resources were mobilised. McQuaid reported that the roof collapsed and the fire's temperature was unusually high, causing the fire to spread faster than normal. He supported the view that the fire's speed made it impossible for hoses to be laid effectively. McQuaid also noted that the fire brigade's assessment of a fire's extent is based on experience and visual judgement upon arrival. The inquest heard additional testimony from former firefighters and ambulance staff, but the focus remained on the fire's rapid spread and the lack of prior similar incidents. The hearing continues tomorrow at the Rotunda Hospital.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Senior fireman tells inquest there was 'something' in Stardust that contributed to fast spread of flames. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• February 14, 1981 Incident
• 2023-12-06 Publication

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial

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Read the original CNI report