Police are investigating a suspected arson attack in Carrickfergus in the early hours of today(Saturday Nov 14).
They say that just after 2.05am, “police received a report from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service about a vehicle on fire in the Irish Quarter South area”.
When police arrived at the scene, the fire had been extinguished. The blaze caused damage to the interior of the vehicle and to its windscreen, the police said in a statement issued today.
It is understood there has been at least one other incident of criminal damage in the area in recent days.
Sergeant Chris Clarke said: “Enquiries are ongoing into this matter, which we are treating as a suspected arson attack at this time.
“We are working to establish exactly what occurred and a motive for this reckless attack. I am appealing to anyone who was in the area around 2am and saw any suspicious activity to get in touch with us on 101 and quote reference number 138 of 14/11/20.”
The police added that a report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport or by ringing Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or going online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
DUP MLA in the area David Hilditch asked for potential witnesses to contact police.
He said: “I’m very concerned at a number of incidents in the Irish Quarter South in recent days. I would appeal for those responsible to desist from this type of reckless activity before someone gets injured or worse. There are many ways to resolve disputes including mediation.
"I would appeal to anyone who has any information to contact the PSNI. Hopefully, as this is just off the main road there are a number of businesses in the area with cctv, cameras can be checked also.”
Alliance MLA Stewart Dickson added that anyone with information should call police or Crimestoppers.
