A flat in Newry was deliberately set on fire last night.
At around 9.15pm last night police received a report that an attempt had been made to set fire to the front door of a flat in Cleary Crescent in Newry.
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.”
Newry Sinn Fein councillor Charlie Casey has condemned the attack.
“This was a thoroughly reckless attack that could have ended in unimaginable tragedy,” he said.
“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.”
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