Woman (34) arrested as cops launch murder probe following fatal house fire
The scene of a fire on the Main Street in Ballymoney and (inset) Paddy Douglas
A 34-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of murder following the death of a man in a Ballymoney housefire.
Patrick 'Paddy' Douglas died following the blaze in the Main Street area of the town on Tuesday morning.
The 55-year-old was rushed to hospital but died of his injuries.
PSNI Detective Inspector Claire McGarvey has appealed for witnesses to come forward.
The scene of a fire on the Main Street in Ballymoney and (inset) Paddy Douglas
News in 90 Seconds - Thursday, July 3
'Following a number of enquiries, a 34-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody at this time," she said.
'I would appeal to anyone with information to contact police. I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the Main Street area of Ballymoney on the morning of Tuesday 1 July just before 7am, and who witnessed anything untoward. Please contact us on 101, quoting reference number 196 01/07/25.'
PSNI's Major Investigation Team launched the murder probe shortly after the fire which broke out around 7am and was attended to by police alongside Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service crews.
Paramedics were also called to the scene to transport Mr Douglas to hospital where he passed away.
Ms McGarvey said her thoughts are with 'family members and loved ones who are left trying to come to terms with their loss'.
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