Widow Of Firefighter Killed In Edinburgh Shop Blaze Still Awaiting Decision After Three Years
The widow of a firefighter who died in the 2023 Jenners department store blaze in Edinburgh has spoken out against what she describes as an "unacceptable and abhorrent" delay in the investigation into his death. Shelley Martin, 39, claims her late husband Barry was sent into the burning building "unprepared and underequipped", leading to his tragic loss.
Devastating Impact On Family
At a press conference in Glasgow, Mrs Martin detailed the profound effect her husband's death has had on their family. "Barry's death has had a devastating impact on me and our two boys," she stated. "My children have been forced to grow up much faster than they should have. Their father's horrific death was a burden placed on our twin boys at eight years old."
She emphasised that Barry was a devoted family man who took great pride in his work as a firefighter. The ongoing uncertainty has compounded their grief, with Mrs Martin expressing disbelief at being told a decision might not come until autumn of this year.
Details Of The Tragic Incident
Barry Martin, 38, a newly-qualified firefighter, died in hospital four days after sustaining critical injuries in the blaze on 23 January 2023. According to the family's solicitor, Aamer Anwar, Mr Martin was deployed as part of a four-person breathing apparatus team and was the least experienced firefighter present.
Mr Anwar reported that within six minutes of entering the building, Mr Martin fell down a flight of stairs, suffering a "catastrophic loss of air" after his equipment was damaged. The firefighter sustained severe burns and hypoxic injuries, ultimately leading to his death.
Mrs Martin firmly believes her husband should never have been sent into the Jenners building, as there was no immediate threat to life at the time. She contends that inadequate preparation and equipment directly contributed to the fatal outcome.
Ongoing Investigations And Legal Actions
The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) is currently considering possible criminal prosecutions related to the fire. In December 2025, civil action was initiated at the Court of Session against the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and Chamic Industrial Services, the firm responsible for work at the Jenners building when the tragedy occurred.
Andrew Watt, SFRS deputy chief officer, stated that the service's thoughts remain with Mr Martin's family and all affected by the incident. He noted that the investigation, led by Police Scotland and overseen by COPFS, is ongoing, making it inappropriate to comment on specific claims while legal processes are active.
Police Scotland confirmed that a report has been submitted to the procurator fiscal, and they are awaiting further instructions. COPFS acknowledged receiving standard prosecution reports from the Health and Safety Executive and emphasised their commitment to a thorough and independent examination of the circumstances.
Appeal For Action And Accountability
Mrs Martin has made a direct appeal to the Lord Advocate to expedite the process. "The Crown delays are unacceptable," she asserted. "It made me question the efficiency of the process, but I can't give up, not just for Barry's sake or my boys, but for every firefighter that risks their lives every day."
COPFS has recognised the deep loss felt by the Martin family and their desire for clarity. A spokesperson affirmed that the complex investigation continues, with significant developments being shared with the family as they work to establish the facts and consider issues of criminality and safety.
