19/04/2017

Hair Salon In Larne Damaged In Fire Attack

Police have launched an investigation after a car reversed into a building and set it on fire in Larne, Co Antrim.

The incident happened at a hairdressers on Main Street at around 9.20pm on Monday, 17 April.

The blaze caused extensive damage to the premises.

It is believed one male travelled to the scene in a grey Nissan Primera and made off on a blue and white motorcycle driven by a second individual.

Detective Chief Inspector Dunny McCubbin said: "This was a mindless and reckless attack by individuals who have shown no concern for the people of Larne and no respect for the business people trying to make a living in the town. This business has been devastated by this attack and there can be no excuse or justification for what happened here last night.

"We are currently investigating a possible link between this incident and other attacks on vehicles in the town over the course of the weekend. At this time it's thought a falling out between two individuals may be the catalyst for these incidents however as the investigation is at a very early stage it wouldn't be appropriate to comment further on that particular line of enquiry."

Two men have been arrested in connection with the incident.

A 30-year-old has been charged with Grevious Bodily Harm (GBH) and possession of an offensive weapon. He is due to appear at Ballymena Magistrates' Court on 11 May.

The second male, 32, has been charged with common assault and making threats to damage property.

He is due to appear at Ballymena Magistrates' Court on 4 May.

All charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.

(CD/JP)

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