After putting out a significant fire in the heart of Edinburgh, a firefighter lost his life. Barry Martin, 38, passed away in the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh after being called to the burning Jenner’s Building at 11:29 a.m. on Monday. He was one of five firefighters who suffered life-threatening injuries while putting out the fire at the former department store on Princes Street.

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Who was Barry Martin?

Scotland’s Fire and Rescue Service’s interim chief officer, Ross Haggart, stated: “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.”

His passing was described as a “terrible tragedy” by Nicola Sturgeon, the First Minister of Scotland. “This is dreadfully sad news,” she tweeted.

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Superintendent David Robertson, of Police Scotland’s Edinburgh Division, said: ‘Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and colleagues of Barry at this very difficult time. Our inquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.’

Other injuries in the Edinburg fire

The fire, which was notified on January 23, was battled by more than 100 firemen. Four firefighters other than Barry Martin were rushed to the hospital, two of whom were being treated for smoke inhalation in addition to burns. After being deemed healthy enough to return home, they were subsequently discharged. A police officer was also transported to the hospital, where he received treatment for smoke inhalation before being released.