A man suffered severe burn injuries and a family home was destroyed in a fire caused by a petrol bomb attack early today in Newry, Northern Ireland. Tragically, the attack also claimed the life of a pet dog.
The incident occurred in the Clonmore area on Armagh Road around 2:20 am when a suspected petrol bomb was thrown through the living room window, as reported by Belfast Live. Detectives have initiated an investigation into the matter.
Emergency services, including officers and the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue team, responded promptly to extinguish the fire. A man in his 50s sustained serious burns in the living room, while three other occupants, including a teenager, managed to escape the blaze. Regrettably, the family’s pet dog perished in the fire.
The injured man remains hospitalized, and the other occupants were treated for smoke inhalation. Authorities described the incident as a deliberate act of arson aimed at endangering lives and destroying property. A neighboring house also suffered smoke damage due to the attack, which is being treated as arson with intent to harm.
Justin McNulty, an MLA for SDLP Newry & Armagh, condemned the violence, emphasizing the potential for tragic consequences. He urged anyone with information to come forward and assist the police in holding the perpetrators accountable for their actions.
Police are actively investigating the incident and urge witnesses or individuals with relevant information, including any video evidence, to contact them. Reports can be submitted online or anonymously to Crimestoppers for further assistance.
