Hundreds Evacuated After Major Apartment Fire in Castleknock

In the early hours of Thursday, 22 May 2026, Dublin Fire Brigade received multiple emergency calls reporting a fire at a large apartment complex in Castleknock, Dublin 15. Crews from Blanchardstown, Phibsborough, and Tara Street fire stations were immediately dispatched to the scene.

Upon arrival, firefighters were met with flames visible from the rooftop and upper floors of the building. Thick black smoke billowed into the night sky and could be seen from several kilometres away, alarming nearby residents across the Castleknock and Blanchardstown areas.

Dublin Fire Brigade immediately escalated the incident to a Major Incident status, deploying multiple pump appliances, a turntable ladder, and two emergency tenders. An Garda Síochána also attended to assist with crowd control and traffic management, cordoning off surrounding roads including the Castleknock Road and Auburn Avenue.

Mass Evacuation Underway

Residents from more than 50 apartments were evacuated as a precautionary measure. The evacuation was carried out systematically by fire crews and Gardaí, going door-to-door to ensure all occupants were accounted for. Many residents were forced to leave with only the clothes they were wearing, gathering in a designated safe area at a nearby community centre.

Dublin City Council's emergency housing team was activated to provide temporary accommodation for displaced residents. Local councillors and community representatives attended the scene to offer support. The Irish Red Cross also deployed volunteers to assist with immediate welfare needs, distributing blankets, water, and hot drinks throughout the night.

Firefighting Operation

Firefighters worked tirelessly for over four hours to bring the blaze under control, using aerial appliances to attack the fire from above while ground crews fought it from within the building. Breathing apparatus teams entered the structure in rotating shifts, navigating smoke-filled corridors to ensure no residents remained trapped inside.

A Dublin Fire Brigade spokesperson praised the swift response of the crews involved, stating that their professionalism under extremely challenging conditions prevented what could have been a much more serious outcome. The spokesperson also noted that the fire was eventually brought under control by approximately 6:00 am.

Casualties and Medical Response

The National Ambulance Service was on standby throughout the incident. One resident — a man in his 40s — was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation and was subsequently transported to Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown for further assessment. His condition was described as stable. No other injuries were reported.

Several other residents received precautionary check-ups at the scene from ambulance paramedics. A HSE crisis response team was also activated to provide psychological support to those affected.

Investigation Underway

Dublin Fire Brigade's Fire Investigation Unit, in cooperation with An Garda Síochána, has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the blaze. Forensic examinations of the scene are ongoing, and investigators are appealing for anyone with information or footage to come forward.

A structural engineering assessment of the building is also being conducted by Dublin City Council to determine the extent of the damage and whether the building remains safe for residents to return. Early assessments suggest significant fire and water damage to the upper floors, with smoke damage affecting much of the structure.

Community Rallies in Support

In the hours following the fire, the Castleknock community demonstrated remarkable solidarity. Local businesses donated food, clothing, and essential supplies. The Castleknock Hotel & Country Club offered temporary accommodation to several displaced families, while local sports clubs opened their facilities as collection points for donations.

A community fundraiser has been launched to support the affected families, with over €15,000 raised within the first 24 hours. Those wishing to contribute can contact the Castleknock Community Centre for details.