Write a commentDamage was caused to a door of a house in Cleary Crescent last night after liquid poured from a bottle was set alight.
It happened around 9.15pm last night.
Inspector Jon Burrows said: “Early indications are that a flammable liquid was poured on the door from a plastic bottle before the bottle was placed at the door and set alight.
Damage was caused to the door. The flat was not occupied at the time however a neighbour in a nearby flat was treated for some smoke inhalation. We are keen to hear from witnesses or anyone who was in the area at the time. The number to call is 101.”
Condemning the incident Deputy Chairperson Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Gillian Fitzpatrick said “This kind of criminality is simply unacceptable. Any act of arson is abhorrent but to target a block of flats is particularly dangerous with the huge risk of fire spreading to adjoining properties.
“The arsonist responsible showed breath-taking recklessness and disregard for the innocent people who could have been killed in their own homes"
Also speaking about the incident was Cllr Charlie Casey who said “This was a thoroughly reckless attack that could have ended in unimaginable tragedy.
“While there was nobody in the flat at the time there were other people in the building, at least one of whom suffered smoke inhalation. This fire was started, with an accelerant, inside the building and could have easily burned the entire building to the ground and everybody in it.
“Anyone capable of such a grotesque act is a danger to the entire community and must be apprehended.
“It was still bright when this attack happened. If anybody saw anything I’d urge them to contact the PSNI immediately and help catch this person before their blatant disregard for life leads to tragedy.”
