Updated at 20:27
A man killed in a workplace explosion in Co Donegal has been named locally as Stephen Montgomery.
Mr Montgomery, who was 43-years-old, was a married man with one grown-up child and was from the nearby seaside village area of Dunfanaghy.
He was working breaking up rock while working at a house at a site at Bloody Forelands in Gaoth Dobhair earlier today when tragedy struck.
It is understood that Mr Montgomery was operating machinery when an explosion occurred.
The emergency services rushed to the scene while Gardaí sealed off the area.
The Health and Safety Authority also confirmed that they were aware of the incident and had sent investigators to the site.
Members of the Irish Defence Forces Explosive Ordnance Disposal were also requested to attend the scene.
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Gardaí evacuated the area and also closed roads leading to the scene of the explosion.
Mr Montgomery’s body was later removed to Letterkenny University Hospital where a post-mortem is due to take place.
Army explosive experts ate the scene of the tragedy in Donegal. (Photo Joe Boland)
The exact details of how the tragedy occurred have not yet been released.
It is understood that two other men were working at the site when the incident happened.
However, it is not understood that either of these men were injured.
A Garda spokesperson confirmed they are investigating the incident involving an ‘apparent explosion’.
They also confirmed that the Irish Defence Forces Explosive Ordnance Disposal has been requested to attend the scene.
A spokesperson said “Gardaí are currently at the scene of an apparent explosion at a location on the outskirts of Bunbeg, Co. Donegal this afternoon Monday, May 29th, 2023.
“An Garda Síochána has evacuated the surrounding area and the Irish Defence Forces Explosive Ordnance Disposal has been requested. The road is currently closed, and local diversions are in place. The Health and Safety Authority have been notified.”
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has confirmed they are aware of the incident and have launched an investigation.
Meanwhile, a minute’s silence was held at today’s meeting of Donegal County Council in honour of the man who lost his life in the tragedy.
Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Liam Blaney, offered his condolences to the family of the bereaved man.
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