Child's Death In Caravan Blaze Probed

Police are investigating the horrific accidental death of a toddler who died of burns when he was trapped in a blazing disused caravan.

As several other children were playing nearby, Michael Mongan (2) was trapped inside and died - but other children miraculously escaped from the massive fire yesterday.

The boy's sister and others rushed to the scene near Dunsink Lane in Finglas but attempts to save Michael failed.

Witnesses said that the little boy stood "no chance" as he was "paralysed by fear" when the fire went up, said one onlooker.

Gardai are investigating, but a spokesman said they are treating it as a "personal tragedy" after one local woman complained about the lack of services in the area, she added: "This was an accident waiting to happen."

It is understood that Michael and four older children were playing when the fire started in St Joseph's Park in Finglas. The other children, aged five and six, managed to escape the blaze but Michael became trapped.

Witnesses have said that rescue efforts failed because the toddler was so scared. Fire and ambulance crews rushed to the scene but Michael was pronounced dead at hospital.

His parents Anne Marie and Martin have been left shocked and devastated by the tragedy.

Family members of the other children have said it is a miracle that only one life was lost.

(BMcC/GK)