Incident at Braniel Bonfire
A man has died following a reported fall from an Eleventh Night bonfire in the Braniel housing estate in east Belfast on Friday night.
Locally identified as Warren "AKA" Lyttle, the man’s death has been described by community groups as a tragic accident.
Community Response
Three local groups involved in the Braniel Eleventh Night commemorations issued a joint statement on social media expressing their sorrow.
"We are heartbroken by his death, which we describe as a tragic accident."
Local residents present at the event confirmed to NI that the man fell from the bonfire structure. They also indicated that a minute's silence would be observed in his memory.
The statement was released by the Braniel Bonfire Committee, Braniel Loyal Flute Band, and Braniel Community Group.
"Our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies are with Mr Lyttle's family and friends at this incredibly difficult time."
"As a community, we are heartbroken by this tragic loss and ask that everyone keeps his loved ones in their prayers in the days and weeks ahead."
Plans for Upcoming Bonfire
Bonfires were scheduled to be lit in the Braniel estate on Saturday night as part of the annual Battle of the Boyne commemorations.
The organisers stated they had consulted with Mr Lyttle's family, who expressed their wish for the bonfire to continue as planned.
"After careful consideration, we have decided to honour their request."
They intend to hold a one-minute silence for Mr Lyttle before lighting the bonfire at 21:00 BST and have invited attendees to participate in the tribute.
"We ask that once the bonfire has been lit, everyone pays their respects by dispersing quietly and respectfully afterwards."
Context of the Bonfire Tradition
Bonfires are traditionally lit annually in some unionist areas across Northern Ireland in July to mark the Twelfth of July, a significant date in the parading season.
The majority of these bonfires are lit on 11 July, known as the Eleventh Night.
The Twelfth commemorates the Battle of the Boyne in 1690, when Protestant King William III defeated Catholic King James II.
