Fire in Kirkby Lonsdale Claims Life as Investigations Begin into the Cause

Firefighters responded quickly to a devastating fire in Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria, shortly before 6 am, where thick smoke was seen pouring from a three-storey building, reported by BBC. A major incident was declared, prompting the evacuation of residents and the cordoning off of roads leading to the area.

Tragically, a man was pronounced dead at the scene at 6:30 am, with his family having been informed of his passing. In addition to the fatality, another individual affected by the fire was transported to Lancashire Infirmary for treatment of minor injuries and was checked for smoke inhalation. Thankfully, no other casualties or injuries have been reported at this time.

Main Street in Kirkby Lonsdale remains closed, and emergency services, including Cumbria Fire and Rescue, local police, and the Local Authority, are continuing to work diligently at the site. As the investigation continues, it is expected that the road closures will persist for several days, with diversion routes in place and clearly marked for public guidance.

Superintendent Paddy O’Hara, Chair of the Strategic Co-ordinating Group overseeing the fire response, shared an update, stating: “The cause of the fire is presently unknown. Investigators from both Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service and Cumbria Constabulary are on hand to enter the building as soon as it is safe to do so.” He also took a moment to express gratitude, saying, “I’d like to thank the emergency services personnel and our partner agencies for all their hard work in Kirkby Lonsdale today, and the local community for their patience.”

Local residents have been advised to keep their doors and windows closed as a precaution, while authorities have urged people to avoid traveling into the town at this time. Further updates will be shared to support both the local community and businesses during this sensitive period.

At present, emergency services remain stationed at the scene, with all agencies working together to manage the ongoing incident. Investigations into the cause of the fire will continue once it is safe for investigators to enter the building.