An investigation is under way after a section of ceiling collapsed in a Penneys store at the Golden Island shopping centre in Athlone this evening.
The section, measuring approximately three metres by four metres, was in an area of foyer in front of escalators on the ground floor of the shop.
While the cause is still being investigated, initial indications suggest the collapse was caused by a blocked downpipe on the flat roof of the 16-year-old premises, which led to a build up of rain water.
The store was open at the time and there were customers inside, but there are no reports of any injuries among staff or customers.
The shop was evacuated following the incident.
It is not yet clear whether or not the store will open tomorrow.
