Police treating east Belfast arson attack as a threat to endanger life as occupants leave unharmed
Three people managed to leave a house unharmed following a report of an arson attack in east Belfast.
Detective Sergeant McCallum stated that officers received a report at approximately 5.35am this morning (November 21) of a fire at the front of a property in the Rathmore Street area of the city.
Officers attended the scene, alongside colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service who extinguished the blaze.
He explained that extensive scorch damage was caused to the front door area, including exterior fittings and a drainpipe.
Three occupants of the property who were inside the house at the time were thankfully able to escape uninjured.
He added: “However, we are treating this report as arson with intent to endanger life, and enquiries are ongoing today to determine a motive and who was involved.
“We are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time and noticed anything suspicious to make contact with us.
“We also want to hear from anyone who may have CCTV, dash-cam or other footage of the area to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 165 21/11/25.”
A report can be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport
Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org