Car completely destroyed in deliberate fire in Ballymena overnight

The burnt out vehicle on Sunday morning

A car was completely destroyed after a deliberate fire in a residential area of Ballymena in the early hours of Sunday morning, prompting a police appeal for information.

The incident happened in the Shetlands Gardens area of Ballykeel II shortly after 3.10am on Sunday, June 14, when emergency services were called to reports of a vehicle on fire.

Police officers attended the scene alongside crews from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.

Vehicle left burnt out

The vehicle was extensively damaged in the blaze and was left completely burnt out.

Thankfully, no injuries were reported as a result of the incident.

Police investigating suspected arson

Sergeant Cushley said:

“Colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service were also in attendance, and it is believed at this stage that this was deliberate ignition.

“The vehicle was left completely burnt out as a result of the incident. Thankfully, there were no reports of any injuries.”

Police have launched enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the fire and are seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area before or after the incident.

Appeal for witnesses and information

Investigators are urging anyone who may have information, CCTV footage, dashcam recordings, or who noticed suspicious behaviour in the Shetlands Gardens area during the early hours of Sunday morning to come forward.

Sergeant Cushley added:

“We are appealing to anyone who might have any information which could assist us with our enquiries to get in touch by calling 101, and quoting reference number 268 of 14/06/26.”

Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Police enquiries remain ongoing as officers work to establish the circumstances surrounding the suspected deliberate fire.