Two hospitalised after suspected gas explosion at pub in Co Clare

Pat Flynn

Two people have been taken to hospital following a suspected gas explosion in Killaloe, Co Clare.

The alarm was raised at around 1pm on Monday when emergency services received reports of an explosion and fire at Walsh’s ‘Top of the Town’ bar on Main Street, Killaloe.

Units of Clare County Fire and Rescue Service from Killaloe and Scarriff stations responded to the incident along with Gardaí and National Ambulance Service paramedics.

The bar is located just metres from the local Garda station and about 100 metres from the fire station.

It is understood that there was at least one person at the premises at the time of the incident, but they managed to make their way to safety.

A second person was also injured, but it has not yet been confirmed whether they were in the building at the time.

Two people were treated at the scene by paramedics and were later taken to University Hospital Limerick by ambulance for further assessment. Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

An inspection of the scene is due to be carried out, and ESB engineers and gas technicians have also been requested to attend the site.

The area around the pub has been cordoned off and traffic is being diverted away from Main Street, The Green and Thomas Street.

Gardaí are asking motorists to avoid the area, adding that the road will remain closed for some time.