Two people are in hospital following a terrifying arson attack in Armagh city, prompting an attempted murder investigation by police.
The incident unfolded on Monday evening, shortly before 9pm, at a property on Irish Street. Emergency services rushed to the scene as flames tore through the building, sending shockwaves across the neighbourhood.
“Officers received a report of a fire shortly around 8.55pm. They were in attendance alongside colleagues from Northern Ireland Fire Rescue Service who extinguished the blaze,” confirmed a spokesperson for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).
The attack led to the hospitalisation of two individuals who sustained injuries during the blaze. Their condition has not been disclosed.
A 38-year-old man was arrested at the scene. He remains in police custody and is being held on suspicion of attempted murder and arson with intent to endanger life.
“A 38-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and arson with intent to endanger life. He remains in custody at this time,” the PSNI spokesperson added.
Local MP for Newry and Armagh, Daire Hughes, expressed his concern over the violent nature of the incident and offered his thoughts to those impacted.
“This was a frightening incident for those in the vicinity, and I want to commend the swift response from emergency services. Police will remain in the area over the coming hours as their investigation continues.
My thoughts are with anyone who may have been injured or impacted by this incident,” the Sinn Féin representative posted on X (formerly Twitter).
As the police cordon remained in place through the night, forensic officers examined the scene for clues. The motive behind the attack is still under investigation.
The PSNI has urged anyone with information to come forward as they continue their inquiries.
Residents in the area have been left shaken by the ordeal, with many describing the blaze as “horrific” and the street as “chaotic” during the emergency response. More updates to follow as the investigation develops.
