Family Fighting for Life After Deliberate House Blaze in Dungannon
Two people are in critical condition after a deliberate house fire tore through a home on Cunninghams Lane, Dungannon, County Tyrone, on Monday night (February 3, 2025).
Police rescued a 37-year-old man, a 70-year-old woman, and two children aged seven and ten from the burning property. The adults remain in a critical state, while the children are stable.
A 21-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy have been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. The older suspect was found on the roof of the house when officers arrived.
Heroic Rescue by Brave Police Officers
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) responded swiftly after reports of children trapped inside the blazing home around 8:30pm.
- Eight police officers suffered smoke inhalation but were treated and discharged.
- Officers borrowed two ladders from nearby homes to carry out the daring rescue.
- The 70-year-old woman was pulled unconscious from the flames and rushed to hospital.
Deputy Chief Constable Bobby Singleton said: “Were it not for their bravery, lives would have been lost.”
He condemned the fire as “mindless cruelty” and added, “It’s hard to comprehend the panic and fear caused to those in the home.”
Traumatised Witnesses and Community Support
Local resident Cadalia Freitas, who witnessed the horror, said she was left shaking and traumatised by the scene.
Freitas recalled: “I heard children crying for help and directed a police officer with a ladder to help rescue them. I was scared and couldn’t sleep because of the smoke.”
David Thompson, principal of Dungannon Primary School, confirmed the two children attend the school and promised community support during their recovery.
Ongoing Investigation and Police Appeal
A police cordon remains in place as forensic teams work alongside the Fire Service to probe the cause of the blaze.
Sinn Féin councillor Deirdre Varsani expressed hope that all affected “are now safe,” while DUP councillor Clement Cuthbertson praised the officers’ courage.
The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service sent six emergency crews, a hazardous response team, two paramedics, and an ambulance officer. Twelve patients were taken to Craigavon Area Hospital.
Police Urge Public: Don’t Share Distressing Fire Footage
Videos and images of the fire have been circulating online. Police have urged the public to stop sharing them out of respect for the victims and their families.
Deputy Chief Constable Singleton warned: “Such images could cause further distress to the victims and may interfere with legal proceedings.”
Call for Witnesses
Police continue to investigate the fire’s motive but do not currently treat it as a hate crime.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the PSNI on 101 or give anonymous tips to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
