Fatal fall from east Belfast Eleventh Night bonfire claims man in his 40s

A male in his forties died following a fall from an Eleventh Night bonfire in east Belfast, authorities reported.

The incident took place in the Braniel estate, east of the city, on Friday night.

Police identified the deceased as Warren Lyttle; he was transported to hospital on Friday and succumbed to his injuries on Saturday.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland issued a statement saying that officers received a report at 4:40 p.m. on Saturday, 11 July, confirming the death and that they are investigating the circumstances, with the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland notified.

A joint statement from the Braniel Bonfire Committee, Braniel Loyal Flute Band and Braniel Community Group expressed their deep condolences to the family, friends and all who knew Warren, describing the community as heartbroken and urging prayers.

They respectfully request that all attendees observe a minute of silence in Warren’s memory prior to lighting the bonfire.

Several traditional Eleventh Night bonfires were lit across Northern Ireland on Friday evening, with additional pyres ignited on Saturday and Sunday nights.

These bonfires are traditionally lit ahead of the Orange Order’s 12 July parades, which commemorate the 1690 Battle of the Boyne, where Protestant King William of Orange defeated Catholic King James.

Although most bonfires proceed without incident, some have attracted controversy due to the placement of flags, effigies and political posters on the structures prior to ignition.

Widespread condemnation followed a bonfire in Moygashel, County Tyrone, that displayed a replica mosque before police could remove it on Thursday.

A man appeared in court on Friday charged with incitement to hatred.

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