Gardaí have uncovered crucial CCTV footage showing a person who appeared to be looking for a gas leak several hours before the fatal explosion at a service station in Creeslough, which claimed ten lives. This footage is expected to be presented as part of the ongoing investigation into the incident that occurred nearly four years ago.
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has yet to make a decision on potential prosecutions, with the delay attributed to the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) not having yet submitted its report. The HSA stated that its investigation is in an advanced stage and that its Chief Executive will meet with the families of the victims in early July.
This development comes as families prepare to be briefed by investigating gardaí on case updates. Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan has indicated that a public inquiry, similar to the 'Stardust' investigation, will not be held until the DPP determines criminal liability. The Department of Justice has echoed this sentiment, stating an inquiry cannot proceed until the DPP's decision.
The Creeslough explosion on October 7, 2022, destroyed a petrol station and an adjoining apartment complex. Among the ten victims were three children: five-year-old Shauna Flanagan Garwe, who died with her father Robert; 13-year-old James Monaghan and his mother Catherine O’Donnell; and 14-year-old Leona Harper. The other victims were Hugh Kelly, Jessica Gallagher, Martin McGill, James O’Flaherty, and Martina Martin.
Seven individuals have been arrested as part of the extensive criminal investigation. Gardaí submitted their first file to the DPP in September and a second file in March, including formal recommendations on charges for those arrested.
The investigation into the tragedy is one of three separate probes, alongside those conducted by the HSA and the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU). A complaint regarding the gas system at the service station and apartment complex was reportedly made to the CRU years before the explosion, but the regulator has declined to comment on any actions taken.
