Police in Dungannon have made an arrest following a serious fire at a house in the Cunninghams Lane area of the town last night. The Northern Ireland Fire Brigade and the PSNI responded to a report of a house fire where children were feared trapped, just after 8:30pm last night.
Police officers arrived at the burning building before the Fire Service and according to District Commander, Superintendent Peter Stevenson, officers obtained ladders from neighbours and used them to rescue four people. A fifth person was found on the roof, and brought to safety.
"The person on the roof, a man aged 21, was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and remains in custody at this time," Superintnedent Stevenson said.
The four people rescued were taken to hospital. Two women aged 37 and 70 remain in a critical condition, while two children, aged 7 and 10, are in a stable condition.
In addition, eight local police officers were taken to hospital for treatment for the effects of smoke inhalation but all were released inn the early hours of this morning.
Investigating officers say they are "particularly keen" to hear from anyone who may have relevant CCTV, doorbell or other footage, which would help with their ongoing enquiries.
In the meantime, the PSNI is holding a press conference about the "serious house fire" this afternoon.
