Co Armagh car company targeted by arsonists vows to stay in business

By Donal McMahon

A member of staff at a newly opened car sales and recovery company in Co Armagh insists arsonists who burnt out 15 of its vehicles will not force the firm out of business.

The New Year’s Eve early morning blaze took hold and gutted the Forkhill Road car lot business at approximately 2.15am.

High-end vehicles including the ‘Elite Cars and Recovery’ company’s own branded van were destroyed.

Two men wearing balaclavas were seen leaving the area in a black Toyota Avensis.

A manager at the company, who does not wish to be named, said that those responsible for the arson would not put them out of business. 

“We we’re left shocked that this new business, only open six months, could be left destroyed like this especially at this time of year,” they said. 

“However, this will not stop us from rebuilding and coming back into business in this community." 

The member of staff from the rural based car company stated that the company will not be deterred from continuing to operate in the south Armagh area.

“Even though it has been a horrific fire we are glad to say that it has only been stock that has been destroyed and no one has been injured,” they added.

“There appeared to be a lot of evidence left from the arson attack.

“For those who did this I would say that they will be caught and will have to face up to what they have done, it’s only a matter of time.”  

Police in Newtownhamilton have appealed for information.

A PSNI spokesperson said: "Enquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and police would appeal to anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 125 31/12/19.

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