Police in Coleraine are investigating a suspected arson attack at a block of flats on Society Street. The fire was reported shortly before 1am on Wednesday, April 8. It started in a communal area inside the building.

Firefighters rescued a number of trapped people from the flats. They used breathing apparatus and a hose reel jet to put out the flames. Six fire appliances attended at the height of the incident. Firefighters left the scene at 2:05am.

Other residents were evacuated until the building was safe to re-enter. Two people received treatment from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service. No further injuries were reported.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland believes the fire was deliberate. Detectives handed over the scene after the fire service extinguished it.

Police have asked witnesses to contact them on 101, quoting reference 60 08/04/26. Reports can also be submitted online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-uk.org. They seek dash-cam or CCTV footage from the area.