Northern Ireland

Police treating fire in Randalstown as arson

Police are treating a fire at a flat in Randalstown as arson with intent to endanger life
Police are treating a fire at a flat in Randalstown as arson with intent to endanger life Police are treating a fire at a flat in Randalstown as arson with intent to endanger life

TWO men have been treated for the effects of smoke inhalation following a flat fire in Co Antrim.

Police are treating the blaze at a block of flats in the Neillsbrook View area of Randalstown as arson after accelerant was poured through the letterbox of the property and ignited.

The emergency services were called to the scene at around 12.50am.

Police said those responsible wore black clothing with the hoods up and masks.

One of the two men in the flat smashed an upstairs window in an attempt to get out. Both occupants suffered the effects of smoke inhalation and one remained in hospital for treatment yesterday.

Firefighters were called to the scene, but the blaze was out on arrival after neighbours had poured jugs of water on the fire.

A door was damaged and a flat left smoke damaged.

Police said they are "working to establish a motive for this attack" and have appealed for information.