Man dies after fall from Eleventh Night bonfire
A man has died after falling from a traditional Eleventh Night bonfire in east Belfast. The victim has been named as Warren "AKA" Lyttle, aged in his 40s. He was taken to hospital on Friday night following the incident at the Braniel estate but died from his injuries on Saturday, July 11.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed they received a report at 4.40pm on Saturday that a man had died in hospital after a fall at the site of a bonfire in east Belfast. A spokesperson said: "Police are investigating the circumstances of what happened, and the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) has been informed."
Daughter's emotional tribute
Warren's daughter Lacey paid a heartfelt tribute on Facebook on Saturday. She wrote: "Well never did I think I’d have to write this so soon. Was with you yesterday. Rest easy daddy. Never used to let me get a pic with you lol. Wouldn’t change you for the world, I will love you forever until we meet again."
Community response
A joint statement from the Braniel Bonfire Committee, Braniel Loyal Flute Band and Braniel Community Group described the incident as a "tragic accident". It said: "Our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies are with Warren’s family, friends and everyone who knew and loved him at this incredibly difficult time. As a community, we are heartbroken by this tragic loss and ask that everyone keeps his loved ones in their prayers in the days and weeks ahead."
Following discussions with the family, the bonfire was lit as planned on Saturday night. The statement added: "We respectfully ask everyone attending to join us in observing a minute’s silence in Warren’s memory before the bonfire is lit."
Traditional bonfires across Northern Ireland
The Eleventh Night bonfires are lit annually ahead of the Orange Order's July 12 parades, which commemorate the 334th anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne. While most events pass without incident, some have been controversial due to the placement of flags, effigies, and election posters on the pyres. In Moygashel, Co Tyrone, a bonfire featuring a replica of a mosque was lit a day early on Thursday to avoid a planned police operation to remove it.
