A man has died after "falling from a bonfire" in Larne on Friday night.
The emergency services were called to the Antiville bonfire off Linn Road in the town following reports that a man in his 30s had fallen from the bonfire.
The man had been assisting in building the bonfire when the incident took place
The local community has been deeply saddened by the tragic death with Craigyhill Presbyterian Church Minister Ben Preston saying: "Just home from the Antiville bonfire in front of the church, the scene of a tragic death this evening. As a church, our deepest condolences are with the family and community of Antiville and Craigyhill. Our thanks go to the Ambulance Service, PSNI, and Fire & Rescue Service for their work tonight.
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"Let us remember Psalm 23 "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."
"Flowers can be left on our church fence, you'll be welcome to join us for worship at 11am, and in the afternoon we'll open a drop-in for the community to come and chat or pray, or just have a cup of tea. We'll be here for you tomorrow."
People across Northern Ireland have sent their condolences to the grieving community in Larne.
Tagit Tullycarnet in East Belfast said: " Heartfelt sympathy sent to the families of a Bonfire builder in Larne (Antiville Bonfire) who has tragically passed away last night at the bonfire. So sad."
While those from the Old Mossley Community Bonfire in Newtownabbey said: "Old mossley bonfire would like to pass on its deepest sympathy to the family of a fellow bonfire builder in Larne after the unfortunate tragedy that happened tonight in the Antiville estate in Larne.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this time.
"Please be aware that if you are building or attending a bonfire they are dangerous. Please ensure that you are building them in a safe way as possible and/or be aware of how close you are standing as it's lit. We have unfortunately already lost one life too soon, we do not need another."
Police have confirmed that a man in his 30s has died while he was assisting in building the bonfire and an investigation surrounding his death has been launched.
Inspector Adrian Bryan said: “We understand that the man was assisting in the building of the bonfire when this tragic accident occurred. Our thoughts are very much with his family at this time.”
He continued: “Our investigation has commenced and we are appealing for witnesses, especially those who were in the area last night around 10.15pm, to come forward and contact us on 101 quoting reference number 1866 09/07/22.
“Alternatively, you can submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/”
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