Neighbours in Motherwell have told of their terror after a house was torched in the middle of the night.
One resident said she thought someone had been shot after hearing a loud bang shortly before 2am today.
Police believe the attack in Cliveden Drive, Motherwell, was "targeted".
The front door of a flat was set on fire, causing "substantial" damage. No one was injured and firefighters put out the flames.
It's understood the flat is occupied by a man who lives there alone.
A neighbour said: "It's shocking to think what could have happened had the fire taken hold.
"That door is the only way out and the flames could easily have spread to other flats in the block.
"Kids in the street were wakened by the noises and are traumatised. They're scared to go out to play now."
Another neighbour was wakened by a loud bang.
She said: "I thought someone had been shot, but then I saw the door on fire."
Police are keen to trace a man seen running away from the cul-de-sac. He was wearing a light-coloured top and dark trousers.
Detective Inspector Kenneth Dalrymple said: "This was a reckless and dangerous act of wilful fireraising that, thankfully, did not result in anyone getting injured.
"We believe it was a targeted attack and are keen to trace those responsible as soon as possible."
