Newry home targetted in an arson attack

By Adam Evans

Accelerant has been poured on the door of a flat in Newry and set alight.

Detectives say the arson attack happened yesterday morning on the first floor of a building in Loanda Crecent.

Crews were called and found that the flat was empty but its door has been left badly damaged.

Detective Sergeant Peter Stewart said: "Police received a report of a fire at the front door of a first floor flat at Loanda Crescent at around 8am on Saturday morning. 

"Upon arrival of police and NIFRS personnel, the fire had been extinguished by a neighbour. Checks were then carried out to ensure no-one was inside the flat. 

"At this time it is believed that accelerant was poured on the door and then set alight. 

"The door of the flat has been badly damaged as a result of the fire and smoke damage caused to the inside of the property.

"I would ask anyone who noticed any suspicious activity in the Loanda Crescent area at the time of this incident or anyone who has any information which could assist with our enquiries to contact detectives in Ardmore on 101 quoting reference number 354 11/11/17 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."