Petrol bomb attack outrage

The bomb was thrown through a window at the house in Silverthorn Avenue in the Harpur's Hill area around 11.45pm on Wednesday.

Police said the petrol bomb failed to ignite and appealed for anyone with any information to contact them.

No motive for the incident has been established.

In a letter to local residents Constable Claire Burke of the Neighbourhood Police Team said: “Throwing a petrol bomb into a family home is a most reckless act that could easily have resulted in serious injury and serious damage to the house if not neighbouring houses as well.

“This criminal behaviour is not acceptable to us or the vast majority of people who live in the area.”

Appealing for public help, Constable Burke added: “The police investigation is currently ongoing.

“It is understood that two men, described as being in the early twenties, were seen in the area around the time the incident occured.

“It is important that we speak to these young men and would ask them or anyone who can help to identify them to contact the detectives at Coleraine police station.

“”There is no doubt that working together is the best way to solve this crime and to make Harpur’s Hill a safer place to live.

“We would like to assure local residents that police patrols will be paying particular attention to the area in the days and weeks ahead.”

Coleraine Alliance councillor Barney Fitzpatrick, said: “I am shocked and disgusted at this.

“This must have been a horrific ordeal for the woman and her son. People in the town will be appalled at the incident.

“Those who are behind incidents like this must be caught. It is difficult to comprehend how anyone could be involved in something like this. Anyone with information on this should contact police immediately.”

DUP alderman James McClure described the incident as a”sinister development” which has left a young woman traumatised.

He added: “It is a miracle the device did not ignite. The potential consequences are appalling.

"Those who are responsible for this incident cannot be allowed to threaten the lives of others. People have the right to live in peace and not feel threatened in their own homes.

“I would urge anyone who saw anything or who might have some information to help the police with their investigation.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident and can help identify the culprits is asked contact the CID in Coleraine.

The number to call is 0845 600 8000. Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555111.