Two people have been taken to hospital and a man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following a suspected arson attack at a pub in Armagh, Northern Ireland.

Emergency services were called to a premises in the Irish Street area shortly before 9pm on Monday (18 August).

Police statement

A spokesperson for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said:

“Officers received a report of a fire around 8.55pm. They were in attendance alongside colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service, who extinguished the blaze. Two people have been taken to hospital for treatment to their injuries.

“A 38-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and arson with intent to endanger life. He remains in custody at this time.”

The road was temporarily closed while emergency services dealt with the incident but has since reopened.

Political reaction

Dáire Hughes, MP for Newry and Armagh, described the attack as a “frightening incident” and praised the response of the emergency services.

Writing on X, he said:

“This was a frightening incident for those in the vicinity, and I want to commend the swift response from emergency services. Police will remain in the area over the coming hours as their investigation continues. My thoughts are with anyone who may have been injured or impacted by this incident.”

Investigation ongoing

Police have confirmed that enquiries are continuing and officers remain in the area. The cause of the fire is under investigation.