A 29-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson following a fire at an apartment in Newtownards last night (Thursday 7 November).
One man who was inside the John Street premises escaped serious injury.
Detective Sergeant Westbury said police received a report, just before 10.25pm, of a fire at a property in the John Street area of the town.
“Officers attended, along with colleagues from Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service and Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, to find a smoke-filled apartment.
“The main damage to the property is scorch damage to the front door.
“We are treating this as arson and we could, have course, have been looking at a very different picture this morning,” he said.
“We have arrested a 29-year-old man on suspicion of a number of offences, including arson with intent to endanger life. He remains in custody, assisting with enquiries.
“Our enquiries are ongoing and we are appealing to anyone with information to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 2291 of 07/11/19.”
Alternatively, information can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.