A number of people are being treated for injuries after several vehicles were hit by a 40ft truck in two separate areas of Dublin Airport.
The incident happened at about 7.20pm on Wednesday. It is understood the driver of the lorry suffered some form of medical trauma that resulted in the collisions. He was being treated at the scene by emergency services.
His truck initially hit a number of vehicles outside Terminal One before making its way to the nearby Circle K garage where more vehicles were hit.
It is not yet clear how many people were struck but their injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.
In a statement shortly after the incident, gardaí confirmed they were at the scene and carrying out a technical examination.
At about 10pm, all vehicles had been removed and roads reopened.
Footage taken near a McDonald’s restaurant appeared to show debris scattered around a steel barrier.
“At approximately 7.20pm this evening, a lorry struck a number of vehicles outside Terminal One and on the departure road of Dublin Airport. A number of cars were damaged and it is understood that a number of persons received minor injuries,” gardaí said, advising traffic to stay clear of the airport in the immediate aftermath.
The DAA, which runs the airport, had also been advising anyone travelling or visiting the site on updates, given the extent of disruption.
“Following a road traffic collision this evening, the departures road and main exit road are currently closed but expected to reopen once the Garda forensic team conclude their work,” it said.
“Diversions are in place and those travelling to Dublin Airport are advised to [give] extra time for journeys.”
As road closures were later removed, it thanked “ all those that who were impacted for their patience and understanding”.
“We sincerely hope those injured will make a speedy recovery to full health.”
However, as an investigation got underway, there was some early confusion at the scene as to how the truck managed to manoeuvre its way around the departures area and then down to the nearby garage.
Pictures had emerged on social media of confused motorists stranded in queues inside terminal car parks.
“What’s happening? We’re 20mins and moved 40/50 meters. Standstill and no one letting us know,” posted one driver. Another described it as a car pile-up.
