Q Radio News
Detectives are appealing for information following an arson attack at a vacant property in the Weaver’s Grange in Newtownards late last night. Police believe the incident may be linked to the ongoing loyalist feud in Ards and North Down.
Detective Sergeant Bell said: “Just after 11.45pm, we received a report of a vehicle and house on fire.
“Officers attended the scene and those in neighbouring properties had to be evacuated from their homes while colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service extinguished the blaze.
“At this stage, we believe that the vehicle was deliberately driven into the side of the property, before being set alight. Extensive damage was caused to the front of the property, and the vehicle was completely destroyed.
“This was a completely reckless attack which could have had serious consequences. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported at this stage though this was obviously distressing for the local community, particularly young children who had to be woken from their beds and brought outside.
“We are following a number of lines of enquiry and I would appeal to anyone who may have seen anyone suspicious in the area at the time of the fire or to anyone who may have dash-cam or CCTV footage that could assist with enquiries, to contact detectives on 101 quoting reference 1930 of 23/11/23."
You can also submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/
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