Co Tyrone: 'Accidental ignition due to dust explosion' believed to have caused large blaze at business premises, says NIFRS
A huge blaze at commercial premises in Omagh’s Doogary West Industrial Estate on Wednesday (April 1) is thought to have been caused by a dust explosion.
One person was airlifted to hospital with injuries sustained in the morning incident.
At the height of the response operation over 100 firefighters, 15 fire appliances, an aerial appliance, a high volume pump, two water tankers and a command support unit were in attendance.
In an update on Wednesday evening, Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) Western Area Commander David Doherty said: “The large fire at a commercial premises at Doogary West Industrial Estate, Bankmore Road, Omagh has now ended.
"The initial call was received at 7.19am this morning, Wednesday 1 April 2026. Firefighters worked tirelessly throughout the duration of the incident to bring the fire under control and prevent further spread. We would like to thank the public for their patience whilst we dealt with this incident.
“The cause of the fire is believed at this stage to be accidental ignition due a dust explosion from a hopper and the incident was dealt with by 18:13pm on Wednesday 1 April 2026.”
Earlier residents were advised to keep windows and doors closed while motorists were told to avoid the area.
Area Commander Doherty said: “One casualty was treated by firefighters at the scene and transferred to the care of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and transported to hospital via Northern Ireland Air Ambulance."
Meanwhile, West Tyrone DUP MLA Tom Buchanan has paid tribute to emergency personnel for their swift and professional response.
He added: “My immediate thoughts are with everyone affected by this incident."
Sinn Féin MP Órfhlaith Begley said: “My thoughts are with the individual injured due to a fire that has taken place in Boyd Bedding.
“I am thinking of all those impacted by this incident and hoping they make a full and speedy recovery."