It’s set to be business as usual this week at an Armagh city centre pub that was the target of an arson attack that left two people in hospital.
The Toby Jug on Irish Street made headlines on Monday evening (August 18) when a bald man casually walked in through the door and fired a lit petrol bomb at two individuals.
The bar was providing sports and music entertainment at the time of the incident where children were also present.
Following the attack, the man walked into the street where he could be seen on CCTV pulling a knife as patrons fled the scene.
John Patrick Nixon (38), of Corrigan Court, was subsequently arrested and appeared at Newry Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday facing charges of arson with intent to endanger life, possession of a blade or point, and three counts of criminal damage in relation to other reported incidents that evening.
Related: Armagh pub arson suspect had another petrol bomb prepared when arrested, court hears
Since Monday, there has been an outpouring of support for The Toby Jug bar and those injured during the incident.
MLA Justin McNulty said he was “shocked and abhorred” by the incident saying it was “frightening, it was shocking, it was horrific” and “like something out of a mafia movie”.
In support of the establishment, Toby Jug patron and local musician Eoin Kelly commented: “We all know it’s tough running a business like this in 2025 – the team at the Toby Jug we’re doing a fantastic job connecting with the community, running plenty of live entertainment, and providing opportunities for pub games and pool competitions.
“Fair play to you all – we hope this one eejit and his crazy senseless act of violence hasn’t knocked you too bad – I hope you know the love and appreciation out there for what you have done over the last year.”
Another added: “Drinking in the Toby for years this one act of madness will not deter me or many others we will be back as soon as you open my thoughts are with the injured at this time.”
The team at The Toby Jug have now announced that they will once again open their doors to the community on Friday (August 22).
Resolute in the face of adversity, the venue will open for “drinks after work” from 4pm and live music with The Mix from 9pm.
They added: “Good company, cold pints, and live music – that’s what Fridays are made for at the Jug.”
