ONE PERSON HAS died and three others have been taken to hospital for treatment after a double decker Bus Éireann bus crashed on North Earl Street in Dublin city centre this afternoon. 

Multiple emergency vehicles attended the scene in the immediate aftermath of the crash and streets in the surrounding area were closed.

It’s believed some people were trapped in the initial aftermath of the crash, which happened in a pedestrianised area a short distance down the street from the junction with Talbot Street.

Bus Éireann said the bus was not in service at the time. 

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud bang as the vehicle crashed at a row of shops on the busy street, which is close to the Spire on the city’s northside.

A tent was erected around the crash site and a Garda cordon put in place as emergency services responded.

Dublin Fire Brigade said over 20 firefighter/paramedics and advanced paramedics responded in multiple vehicles, including some equipped with heavy rescue tools.

It’s understood the incident is being treated as a road crash.

The Luas Green Line was not operating between Stephen’s Green and the Parnell stop in the wake of the crash, with passengers told the disruption was expected to last for much of the afternoon. Bus routes were also disrupted.

It’s expected businesses in the North Earl Street area will remain closed for the day. 

The scene of the crash on North Earl Street in Dublin. Sasko Lazarov Sasko Lazarov

Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan confirmed the fatality in the Dáil.

“Obviously, our thoughts are with the family of the person who has been fatally injured and indeed the people who are in the hospital. We wish them well,” O’Callaghan told the chamber. 

Dublin Lord Mayor Ray McAdam said he wanted to reassure Dubliners that the situation was being actively managed and asked that the public avoid the area to allow emergency services to carry out their work.

Local Labour TD Marie Sherlock, reacting to the news, said it was one of the busiest thoroughfares in the city, with people from all over going about their business. She said she was thinking of all those who are waiting anxiously for news about their loved ones.

Gary Gannon of the Social Democrats and Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald, who also represent the area, expressed their shock at the news. 

“For those in the city, please avoid the area and give emergency services the room to work. It’s essential during this time to follow guidance through official channels and reliable news sources,” Gannon said. 

“We thank Gardaí, Dublin Fire Brigade, ambulance crews and all first responders for their professionalism and courage,” McDonald’s statement said. 

“At this stage, our priority must be the well-being and recovery of those hurt, and the full support of their families.”

She urged anyone who witnessed the incident to follow Garda guidance and to assist with their inquiries.