Community ‘rocked to the core’ following arson attack on pensioner

A community has been “rocked to the core” following a shocking late-night arson attack on a pensioner.

Police launched an investigation after a man poured petrol over the front door of a house in Waringstown before setting it alight on Thursday night.

The female occupant, aged in her 70s, was rescued from the property by fire crews and treated in hospital for the effects of smoke inhalation.

It was reported that at around 11.40pm a male poured flammable liquid over the front door of the lady’s property in Windsor Close before being set alight.

DUP Upper Bann MLA Carla Lockhart said: “This is a very alarming turn of events in Waringstown and must be condemned.

“My first thoughts are with this lady who was obviously very shocked and has been taken to hospital.

“The Waringstown Close area is a close-knit community and one where some residents have lived for over 40 years.

“This attack has rocked the community to the core and when I visited the scene [on Friday] residents expressed both their concern and worry as to the motives.

“I want to pay tribute to the PSNI, Northern Ireland Fire Service and the local community for the early alert.

“This could have cost a life or indeed lives with other residents properties having been damaged.

“I would encourage anyone who has information to come forward to the PSNI via the 101 service and report it.

“Those involved must face the full force of the law and therefore local intelligence is imperative to get a better picture of the events leading up to last nights attack.”

The male, described as wearing a tracksuit top and dark bottoms, made off on foot.

Detectives are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or anyone with any information that can assist with the investigation to contact detectives in Lurgan Police Station on 101 quoting reference 1754 28/06/18.

Or, alternatively information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.

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