Police officer's home targeted in arson attack in Larne

By Q Radio News

A police officer and his family have escaped injury following an arson attack at their home in Larne in the early hours of this morning.

At around 1.45am, police received a report that three cars were on fire outside the property on the Glenarm Road.

All three cars were destroyed as a result.

The fire also caused scorch damage to the house where the officer, his wife and daughter were at the time.

(The remains of two burnt-out cars are removed from the scene of the Larne arson attack)

Police say they're keeping an open mind in terms of the motivation behind the attack, but a primary line of inquiry is that criminal elements may be responsible.

I fully condemn this outrageous attack on the home of our officer. I have spoken to him this afternoon to offer him and his family my full support. There is no place in our society for this behaviour and it must stop. https://t.co/rZSpxFfENB

— Simon Byrne (@ChiefConPSNI) April 29, 2021

Detective Chief Inspector Dunny McCubbin said: “This was a completely reckless attack which could have had serious consequences. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported in what was a terrifying ordeal for the officer and his family.

"There are no words to describe those who would set fire to vehicles in the dark of night outside a family home when the occupants were asleep inside. Their actions stand in stark contrast to the officer who everyday serves our community with dignity, respect and courtesy.

“At the present time we are keeping an open mind as to the motivation behind this attack however a primary line of enquiry is that criminal elements may be responsible.  Detectives have now initiated a full investigation, which I can assure the community will be thorough and robust.

“I would take this opportunity to appeal for the help of the people of Larne and further afield in identifying those responsible. Were you in the Glenarm Road area late last night of early this morning?  Did you see anyone or anything you felt was suspicious?  Do you have any information about this incident? No matter how small or insignificant it may seem, please get in touch.”

Anyone with any information about this incident or who may be able to help with the investigation, is asked to call detectives in Larne on the non-emergency number 101 quoting reference number 100 29/04/21, or to submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. 

(One of three cars  destroyed in last night's arson attack is removed the scene in Larne)

The chairman of the Police Federation of Northern Ireland says it is an appalling incident: 

A police officer and his family have escaped injury following an arson attack at their home in Larne in the early hours of this morning.https://t.co/opJ7SxaP7I pic.twitter.com/927P7m8LWi

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) April 29, 2021

Justice Minister Naomi Long has condemned those responsible for the arson attack against a serving member of the police.

Naomi Long said: “This is an appalling and cowardly attack on a PSNI officer, at their home, where they should be safe.

“I don’t underestimate the distress that is caused by an incident of this nature at a family home.

“Our police officers put their lives on the line on a daily basis to keep us all safe. My thoughts are with this officer, their family and colleagues.

“This violence achieves absolutely nothing and needs to stop.

“I would encourage anyone with information about this intolerable incident to contact PSNI or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

(Two burnt-out vehicles are removed from the scene of last night's arson attack on Larne's Glenarm Road)