Teenage girl, woman, 23, and mum and son named among victims of Ireland petrol station explosion

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Tributes have been paid to some of the 10 people killed in a horrific gas explosion in Ireland.

Emergency services descended on the Applegreen Service Station in County Donegal, Ireland, on Friday following the explosion. Tragically, 10 people - a five-year-old girl, four men, three women and two teenagers - died in the blast.

Police have said the blast was a 'freak accident'.

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Talented teenage rugby player Leona Harper has been named as one of the victims who lost her life, the Mirror reports. Her death was announced by her brother, Anthony, and local rugby club on Saturday evening.

Jessica Gallagher, a 23-year-old former design student, has also been named as a victim, along with Catherine O'Donnell and her 14-year-old son, James. Other victims who died are understood to be a girl, 5, her dad and a local farmer in his 60s.

Paying tribute to Leona, Letterkenny Rugby Club wrote: "We are heartbroken to say our worst fears have been confirmed. Leona Harper tragically lost her life yesterday in Creeslough.

"Leona was a talented rugby player and an important part of our U14 girls team.

"To Leona's parents, Hugh and Donna, her brothers Anthony and Jamie, and all of her team mates, we offer you our deepest condolences and support.

"There are no words that feel strong enough at a moment of deep sorrow such as this. Rest in peace, Leona."

Her brother also shared a picture in tribute, saying he "couldn't have asked for a better little sister".

He wrote: "Leona I love you so much and we all love you so much."

Photos from the scene showed a two-storey apartment block above the petrol station's store with walls blown out and a partially collapsed roof, and debris