Gardaí hospitalised after climbing into burning house in Clondalkin to save woman stuck inside

Two gardaí have been brought to hospital after climbing into a burning house to save a woman's life in Dublin

Gardaí rushed to the scene in the early hours of Friday morning at the Buirg an Rí Walk estate in Clondalkin, Dublin 22, after receiving reports of a woman stuck inside the property.

A Garda statement explained: "At approximately 1.30am, Gardaí arrived to the scene where they were informed that a person may have been trapped inside the property.

"Despite the presence of thick smoke, two Garda members using a ladder entered the rear upstairs window of the property.

"They located a woman in her 50s and brought her to safety through the upstairs window to Garda colleagues waiting below."

Dublin Fire Brigade attended the scene and extinguished the fire.

The woman was brought to Tallaght University Hospital for treatment of injuries believed to be non life-threatening, gardai confirmed.

As a result of smoke inhalation, both male Garda members were taken to Tallaght Hospital to receive treatment. Both members have since been discharged but remain off duty.

Speaking this morning, Chief Superintendent Mick McNulty said: "I want to commend the incredible bravery of the two Gardaí. I have no doubt that their actions prevented a more tragic outcome."

The fire is not believed to have started accidentally and a Garda investigation into potential arson has commenced.

The scene has been preserved and a technical examination will be conducted by Garda Crime Scene Investigators this morning.

"All members involved are receiving support from their colleagues and local Garda management and the wider organisational supports of the Peer Support Service, Chief Medical Officer and 24-hour counselling service have been provided if required," a statement indicated.

Gardaí in Ronanstown are appealing to anyone who may have information or who may have witnessed this incident to come forward to them. Gardaí can be contacted at 01 666 7700, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.