Bushmills pub fire is suspected arson attack say police

Q Radio news

Police says a small fire at a pub in Co.Antrim overnight is being treated as suspected arson.

Scotch House in Bushmills was sealed off at around 3.30am when the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue service were called to the scene.

A flammable liquid was poured into a small alcove inside the bar before being set alight.

Army bomb teams were pictured arriving at the scene shortly after 7.30am on Monday morning but the PSNI say their presence was only a precuation. 

Main Street has now re-opened to traffic. 

Councillor Norman Hillis says he’s concerned over an incident at a Bushmills pub in which flammable liquid was poured into an alcove and set alight. pic.twitter.com/Xcx3MAdZ9l

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) 4 March 2019

(A window was smashed and flammable liquid was poured inside and set alight)

Local Councillor Norman Hillis says it's a concerning development:

Detective Sergeant Rachel Gardiner said:

“Shortly after 3am it was reported that two males smashed the window of a bar in the area before pouring some form of flammable liquid inside and setting it alight. 

"Damage was caused to an alcove inside the bar as a result of the incident.  ATO were tasked to the scene this morning as a precaution.

 “I am appealing for anyone who was in the area of Main Street during the early hours of this morning and who witnessed the incident or anyone who has any information that can assist with our investigation to contact Detectives on 101

Army technical officers at the scene of the overnight fire in Bushmills. PICTURE: MCAULEY MULTIMEDIA

PICTURE :MCAULEY MULTIMEDIA