A FIREFIGHTER has died after a horror blaze at Jenners in Edinburgh.
The major fire broke out at the former department store building on Rose Street in the capital on Monday morning.
2Beloved Barry died days after horror blaze ripped through buildingCredit: SFRS
2Four other firefighters were injured during the infernoPolice confirmed this afternoon that one of the firefighters who responded to the inferno has passed away today.
He has been named as 38-year-old Barry Martin and lost his life four days after he was taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service led tributes to Mr Martin.
Interim chief officer, Ross Haggart, said: “It is with profound sadness that I confirm, on behalf of his family, that Barry Martin has passed away this afternoon following the serious injuries he sustained during a large-scale fire at the former Jenners building in Edinburgh.
“Barry, who was being treated at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, had been in a critical condition since Monday’s fire.
“I speak for the entire Service when I say that we are all devastated by the loss of Barry and our thoughts remain with his family, friends and colleagues at this deeply distressing time.
“Both Barry’s family and the Service have been overwhelmed with the messages of support we have received and we thank everyone for the time they have taken to share these.
“Barry’s family would also like to thank all the medical staff who have cared for him.
“I would now ask that we all allow Barry’s family, friends and colleagues to grieve in private.”
Police Scotland’s Chief Constable Iain Livingston offered the condolences of the nation’s police force, saying: “Very sad news. Everyone in Police Scotland sends love and best wishes to Barry’s family and friends and to all our colleagues in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.”
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “This is dreadfully sad news. My deepest condolences go to Barry’s family, friends and colleagues.
“This is a terrible tragedy for all who loved him – but also a reminder of the selfless courage our firefighters demonstrate in the line of duty each and every day.”
Fellow emergency workers have paid tribute to Barry after the heartbreaking news.
One fellow firefighter wrote: “I am absolutely devastated with the loss of Firefighter Barry Martin – I had the pleasure of meeting him at St Andrew Square in Edinburgh just before Xmas and he is an amazing guy – Credit To The Service.
“I pass my Condolences onto Barry’s Friends And Family – he will be missed by Millions he is a hero and has served his time in the Fire Service proud.”
Another firefighter from England said: “Thinking of all our brothers and sisters in Scotland at this terrible time. Thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences to all Ff Martins family, friends and colleagues. LFB.”
One ambulance service worker paid a heartwarming tribute to the fallen fireman, saying: “Firefighters are amazing people. Their training and skill are immeasurable, particularly in the UK. When the chips are down, you know you can rely on them to get the job done.
“What’s more, they’ll get it done at huge personal risk, with dignified courage, quiet dedication and sheer determination. Rare qualities these days it seems.
“I am saddened to say that, today, those qualities cost a firefighter his life.
“I hope that his family, friends and colleagues will be able to find comfort in the knowledge that he was part of a noble profession, respected and revered, who died in the service of others, and that he will always remain a part of our loving family.
“I did not know you, but you were my brother.”
Four other firefighters who were also taken to the hospital for treatment have been since released.
A police officer was treated for smoke inhalation and was also later discharged.
Superintendent David Robertson, of Edinburgh Division, said: “Our thoughts are with the family, friends and colleagues of Barry at this very difficult time.
“Our enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.”
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Story Credit: thesun.co.uk