Man arrested after early morning arson attack causes extensive damage to Antrim shop

A man in his 20s has been arrested after a shop in Antrim was extensively damaged in an arson attack in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

Police were called to the incident in the Greystone Road area of the town at approximately 3.35am on Tuesday 14 April, following reports that a business premises was on fire.

Officers attended the scene alongside crews from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, who worked to extinguish the blaze.

While no injuries were reported, the fire caused extensive damage to the shop, leaving a significant impact on the business.

Man arrested shortly after fire reported

Police confirmed that a man in his 20s was arrested a short time later in connection with the incident.

He was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences, including arson, attempted criminal damage and theft.

The suspect remains in police custody at this time as detectives continue their enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the fire.

Investigation underway as police appeal for information

The incident is being treated as arson, with officers now appealing to the public for information that may assist the investigation.

Anyone who was in the Greystone Road area around the time of the fire and noticed suspicious activity is being urged to come forward.

Police are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have CCTV, dashcam, doorbell footage or any other video evidence from the area during the early hours of the morning.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference 123 14/04/26.

Reports can also be submitted online through the PSNI’s non-emergency reporting form.

Those wishing to provide information anonymously can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.

Ongoing enquiries

Enquiries remain ongoing as officers work to establish the full circumstances of the fire, including how it started and whether any items were taken from the premises.

The investigation continues.

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At a glance

• Shop fire reported in Antrim at approximately 3.35am on Tuesday 14 April

• Incident happened in the Greystone Road area

• Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service extinguished the blaze

• No injuries were reported

• Extensive damage caused to the business

• Man in his 20s arrested shortly afterwards

• Arrest made on suspicion of arson, attempted criminal damage and theft

• Suspect remains in custody

• Police enquiries are ongoing

• Public appeal issued for witnesses and CCTV footage