John Patrick Nixon, 39, of Corrigan Court, Irish Street in Armagh, appeared via videolink from Maghaberry Prison at Armagh Magistrates’ Court in Newry on Tuesday. He faces charges related to an alleged arson attack with intent to endanger life.

Prosecutors stated the case involves a brick thrown through a window at an Armagh address, followed by a petrol bomb attack on the Toby Jug pub in the city. CCTV footage showed Nixon approaching the pub with a plastic bag, removing an item, lighting it, and entering the doorway, where orange flames flashed. He then exited calmly, walked along the street, and removed a large knife from his jacket waistband.

Two people received significant burn injuries in the incident. Children were present on the premises at the time.

Nixon sought compassionate bail for temporary release to visit his father’s grave on the father’s birthday. Defence counsel noted the birthday fell on March 22 but Nixon was then a sentenced prisoner. Counsel added Nixon received similar compassionate bail in 2024 without incident.

District Judge Anne Marshall refused the application. She questioned if the timing qualified as compassionate, noting the birthday occurred a month earlier. She cited the risk of reoffending and Nixon’s record of breaching court orders.