Woman charged with murder of Patrick ‘Paddy’ Douglas following Co Antrim fire

Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Major Investigation Team have charged a 34-year-old woman with murder in connection with the death of Patrick ‘Paddy’ Douglas, who died following a house fire on Main Street, Ballymoney, on Tuesday, 1 July 2025.

Mr Douglas, who was 55 years old, died after being rescued from a burning mid-terrace flat in the town during the early hours of Tuesday morning.

He was transported to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast by the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

In the days following the fatal fire, police launched a murder investigation and made an arrest.

In a statement issued on Tuesday evening, police confirmed:

“A 34-year-old woman has been charged with the murder of 55-year-old Patrick ‘Paddy’ Douglas, who died following a house fire in the Main Street area of Ballymoney on Tuesday, July 1.”

The accused is expected to appear before Ballymena Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, 5 July.

Police added:

“As is normal procedure, all charges are reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.”

The investigation is being led by detectives from the Major Investigation Team, who continue to appeal for witnesses and information.

Anyone who was in the Main Street area of Ballymoney around 7:00am on Tuesday, 1 July, and who saw anything suspicious, is urged to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 196 01/07/25, or to submit a report via the PSNI online reporting form.

Anonymous tips can also be shared through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.