A man has died in Northern Ireland after falling from a bonfire that was more than 50 feet (15 meters) tall.
The wooden-pallet bonfire is one of many being constructed in loyalist regions of Northern Ireland in preparation for the customary celebrations that take place on the eve of the 12th of July, the most important date of the loyalist parading season.
Saturday night, in the Antiville estate in Larne, County Antrim, a man in his thirties was killed while assisting in the construction of a bonfire, according to police.
After the fatal occurrence, which occurred at 9:30 p.m., police and emergency workers responded to the area, and he was pronounced dead on the spot.
The bonfire was created from stacked wooden pallets and is one of many being constructed in loyalist communities throughout Northern Ireland in preparation for traditional Eleventh Night celebrations.
The fires are lighted to bring in the most important date of the Protestant loyalist parading season – July 12.
When the tragedy occurred, construction on the Antiville fire was nearing completion.
Sammy Wilson, the area’s representative, visited the scene on Saturday night and reported that the community was in shock.
The DUP representative stated, “My thoughts and sympathies are with this man’s family.”
“It is a tragic event that occurred during a significant time of year for the loyalist community.
“The family is well-known in the area, and I’m certain this will have a significant impact on the community.”
Mr. Wilson stated that he believed the bonfire will now be extinguished.
The police have issued a call for witnesses.
Inspector Adrian Bryan of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) stated, “Our thoughts are with his family at this time.”
Craigyhill estate blaze record effort to continue
The fatal fall at Antiville occurred while Larne was in the news for another burning in the city.
The adjoining Craigyhill estate is seeking to shatter the current world record for the tallest bonfire, which stands at 198 feet (60.4 meters).
With a respect to the deceased man, the builders stated that they will maintain their record bid.
In 1690, Protestant King William of Orange defeated Catholic King James II at the Battle of the Boyne, north of Dublin, securing a Protestant line of succession for the British throne.
