David Browne recounts Stardust fire escape at inquest

This report is a localnews.ie summary based on public court reporting and records; sources are listed below.

David Browne’s account of escaping the Stardust fire was read at Dublin District Coroner’s Court on 29 November 2023, during an inquest into the blaze.

In a statement given to gardaí from his hospital bed in 1981, Browne said he and his girlfriend became trapped in a toilet as the fire spread. He described a crack appearing in the wall and opening onto a corridor, where he saw a flame.

Browne said fire surrounded them moments later. They made their way along the corridor, reached exit three and collapsed near its door before being pulled over a wall to safety.

The inquest also heard evidence from other witnesses about their experiences during the fire and conditions inside the club. It was continuing on 29 November 2023.