Building destroyed in mystery fire outbreak

GARDAÍ say they are keeping 'an open mind' on the cause of a fire which gutted the disused Beckett's Mills at Barrett Street, Ballina, in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The street was blocked for a considerable length of time as fire units tackled the outbreak, which was first spotted around 5 a.m.

Two fire brigade units – both from Ballina – tackled the outbreak.

Afterwards fire officers helped demolish part of the building in order to make it structurally more safe.

Further demolition work is being carried out today (Monday) on the structure which is a local landmark.

The building is unoccupied but it has been known to have been used in the past by local youths for drinks parties.