Detectives in Downpatrick are investigating a malicious fire in Castle Gardens in Killyleagh.
Detective Inspector Denise Graham said: “The rear door of a house was set alight at around 3.20am this morning.
“The door was completely destroyed while the inside of the property sustained smoke damage. It is understood the house is currently unoccupied.
“A neighbouring house was also smoke damaged by the blaze.
“A local man, aged 20, was treated for the effects of breathing in smoke after attempting to extinguish the fire prior to the arrival of the NIFRS.”
[caption id="attachment_46137" align="aligncenter" width="550"]
Clifford Healy from Killyleagh looks over the charred remains of his pigeon loft destroyed following an arson attack 18 months ago.[/caption]“Anyone with any information is asked to contact detectives in Downpatrick on the non-emergency number 101.”
Rowallene Councillor Billy Walker has condemned the attempt to set the fire in the property and added: “We have already seen too many fires in Killyleagh causing serious damage and costing tens of thousands in damage. This really has to stop. xa0We have seen the public toilets, a bar, a private property and a pigeon loft with pigeons in it destroyed, and other incidents, and someone must know who is behind all of this, assuming they are possibly even connected incidents.
“My greatest fear is someone may lose their life and we saw last night that a young man suffered smoke inhalation injuries while trying to dowse the fire. Things can go wrong. We as a community must be vigilant and stop this fire menace in Killyleagh whoever is doing it.
“I would certainly urge anyone with information to contact the police immediately before someone gets hurt or killed.”
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