A criminal investigation is underway after an explosion at a homeless hostel in Dublin’s north inner city. 

An improvised explosive device went off killing a man yesterday afternoon.

Karen was staying with her partner Jason at the hostel here on Little Britain Street, just off Capel Street, when she heard a noise shortly after 3 yesterday afternoon. 

“When I was running down the stairs I heard an explosion,” she said. 

“We got a fright, didn’t we?

A man in his 30s, who was originally from eastern Europe, was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated in his room. 

Little Britain Street explosion. 19/01/2024. Image: RollingNews.ie

The army bomb disposal team was called in and carried out a controlled explosion to make the scene safe. 

More than 70 other residents were in the building at the time but no one else was injured. 

Depaul chief executive David Carroll said they will continue to support residents, who have been housed elsewhere.

“My big goal and objective, today and over the weekend, is to make sure that they’re supported with their essential needs,” he said. 

“That will include medication, welfare and finances.” 

The technical bureau has examined the scene this morning as gardaí continue their investigation.

Main image: Little Britain Street explosion. Picture by: RollingNews.ie