Tributes paid to 'inspirational lady' (75) who died in Limerick house fire
Sean Ryan
Tributes are being paid to an elderly woman who died in a house fire in Limerick city on Saturday May 3rd.
The alarm was raised in the early hours of Saturday morning, and emergency services, including crews from Limerick Fire and Rescue Service, were quickly deployed to the scene at Wolfe Tone Street, close to the city centre.
It is understood that the fire was quickly brought under control and that the body of the woman, who was aged in her 70s, was discovered during a subsequent search of the property.
She was pronounced deceased at the scene, and arrangements will now be made to carry out a post-mortem examination on her body.
She has been named locally as Rita Brick (75), who was a native of Mount Pleasant Avenue in Wolfe Street in Limerick city. Locals said that Rita, who was a former employee of Aer Lingus, was an absolutely ‘inspirational lady’.
One said: "Sincere sympathy to all the family on the death of Rita. I had the pleasure of working with her at Aer Lingus and of knowing her through living near her also. May she rest in peace."
Another said: "Such a pleasure to have known Rita, an amazing inspirational lady. Condolences to her family and friends."
While a near neighbour said: "Deepest sympathy to Olive on the passing of Rita, my kind neighbour for years in Mt Pleasant Ave, may she rest in peace."
Ms Brick is survived by her sister Olive Boland and extended family, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, and friends.
The scene of the fire has been preserved by gardai to facilitate a technical examination which will be carried out by the local forensic unit.
Gardaí have confirmed that investigations into the overnight incident are ongoing and any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to come forward.
Gardaí say that while the investigation is at an early stage, it is understood there is nothing to suggest foul play and it is expected a file will be prepared and forwarded to the local coroner.
No funeral arrangements have been made as yet.
