The Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that five young people lost their lives after a balcony collapse in Berkeley, California.
According to local media reports, eight others have been left injured after the devastating incident.
Authorities in the area are said to have received a call over the incident just before 1am local time. When police arrived at the scene, they discovered that a fourth floor balcony on Kittredge Street had collapsed to the ground.
Commenting on the tragic news today, Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan said: “My heart goes out to the families and loved ones of the deceased and those who have been injured in this appalling accident.”
#breaking: live team coverage #Berkeley balcony collapse on @abc7newsBayArea 4:30/5AM w/ @amyhollyfield @JanetONews. pic.twitter.com/hrotePTKx3
— Kristen Sze (@abc7kristensze) June 16, 2015
He added: “My Department in Dublin stands ready to provide all possible consular assistance to the Irish citizens affected by this tragedy. Our Consul General in San Francisco is in close contact with the authorities and will be providing assistance to those affected on the ground.”
It is reported that many of those being treated after the accident have been left with life-threatening injuries.
Our hearts go out to all those affected by this tragic accident.
