Former Mayor shocked at the nature of Newtownabbey fire

10.55.05am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 13th Sep 2007

Alliance Newtownabbey Councillor Lynn Frazer

Former Newtownabbey Mayor Cllr Lynn Frazer has called for a full investigation into what has been called a suspicious fire in Newtownabbey which damaged adjacent properties and led to people being evacuated from their homes. The fire took place at a car workshop on Arthur Road in Newtownabbey around 3am this morning.

Alliance Councillor Lynn Frazer said: "The Authorities have indicated that the fire took place in suspicious circumstances and I would call for full investigation into it. If this fire was arson then those involved in it must be brought to justice.

"The serious nature of the incident is illustrated by the fact that 55 firefighters were deployed to tackle the blaze. It is also distressing that it was serious enough to merit the evacuation of some people from surrounding homes.

"I would appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the vicinity of the incident to contact police immediately."

ENDS