Two people have died following a workplace incident in Co Down in which several people were reported trapped in a trench. Emergency services were called to Ballygowan Road, Crossnacreevy, on Friday morning, prompting a major rescue operation.
Rescue operation launched
Police, fire and ambulance crews responded to reports of people being "trapped in a trench" at the scene. A stretch of Ballygowan Road between Houston Road and Knockbreda Road was cordoned off as the operation got under way.
The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service confirmed it received a 999 call at 10.45am on Friday. A spokesperson said: "Multiple emergency resources were sent including three emergency ambulances, and two Hazardous Area Response Teams (Hart). No-one was taken from the scene."
Officials confirm fatalities
The Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland confirmed its inspectors are on site. A spokesperson said: "HSENI is aware of an incident at a workplace in the Crossnacreevy area and inspectors are on site making inquiries into the circumstances. We are currently liaising with the emergency services and other relevant agencies."
East Belfast MP and DUP Leader Gavin Robinson said on social media: "Sadly, it has been confirmed that two people have lost their lives following an incident in Crossnacreevy. My thoughts are with their families and loved ones at this devastating time, and with the emergency services responding to the incident."
Road closed and ongoing response
A PSNI spokesperson stated: "Police and other emergency services are currently at the scene of a workplace-related incident on Ballygowan Road, Crossnacreevy. The Health and Safety Executive have been advised."
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that two fire appliances from Knock Fire Station, one from Carryduff, one from Cadogan Fire Station and two specialist rescue teams are all present. A spokesperson added: "Firefighters were called to reports of a rescue incident on Ballygowan Road, Crossnacreevy, Carryduff, Down. This incident is ongoing."
Ballygowan Road will remain closed, with an appeal for the public to avoid the area and use an alternative route.
