Courts / Ireland / Report

Inquest jury told to look 'very carefully' at evidence to determine if fire was first seen outside Stardust

Summary

The Stardust inquest jury has been instructed to carefully examine evidence regarding where and when the fire was first noticed, to determine if it was seen outside the venue before being observed inside the ballroom. Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane highlighted that the fire was first seen in the west alcove by patrons inside the club, but also observed from outside by nearby residents. Fire expert Dr Will Hutchinson noted that if residents' timings were accurate, the fire may have already developed in the roof space before becoming visible inside. The jury heard that the fire was seen outside between 1.15am and 1.38am, while it was first observed inside the ballroom at around 1.40am. Dr Hutchinson suggested the fire may have originated in the immersion heater in the hot press or the seating area in the west alcove, with a poorly wired connection at the immersion heater being a possible cause.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Inquest jury told to look 'very carefully' at evidence to determine if fire was first seen outside Stardust. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• 2024-03-22 Publication

Topics

Stage Trial

Read the original CNI report