Arson attack on '˜community' building in Carrickfergus

Commercial premises under consideration for community use in Carrickfergus were the target of an arson attack last night (Wednesday).
The premises at Oakfield Drive were taped off following the incident.The premises at Oakfield Drive were taped off following the incident.
The premises at Oakfield Drive were taped off following the incident.

Detectives are appealing for information following the incident at the Oakfield Drive property, owned by the Housing Executive.

In a statement, the PSNI said: “Around 11.50pm, it was reported that accelerant was used and ignited on the roof of the building. No damage was reported regarding the inside of the premises as Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service extinguished the fire.

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“No one was believed to be in the property at the time of the incident.

“An investigation is underway and we would appeal to anyone with any information which could assist with their enquiries to contact detectives in Ballymena on 101 quoting reference number 1579 26/9/18.”

NIFRS said over a 45-minute period it dealt with a fire involving the roof of the building which had been “deliberately” ignited.

Condemning the attack, East Antrim DUP MLA David Hilditch said: “It’s disappointing at this stage that damage has been caused to a building that has been under discussion for potential community use.”

A spokesperson for the Housing Executive said at this point she could only confirm the commercial property is theirs.

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