Gardai investigating suspected arson attack on house in Athlone

A Garda investigation is underway into a suspected petrol bomb attack which caused fire damage to a house in the Battery Heights area of Athlone during the early hours of this morning (Thursday).

Gardai and firefighting units from Athlone and Ferbane were called to the incident in the Magazine Avenue area of Battery Heights at around 1am.

An Athlone Garda spokesperson said that the house was occupied at the time, but that no injuries have been reported.

The spokesperson said it was believed that a petrol bomb was thrown through a window of the house, and that one of its occupants unsuccessfully tried to extinguish the blaze before the fire service was called.

The fire brigade units from Athlone and Ferbane were working at the scene until approximately 3am.

Gardai say their investigation is at an early stage and that no motive for the attack has yet been identified.

Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the Battery Heights, Cherryfield Avenue, or Magazine Road areas of Athlone between 12.30am and 1.30am this morning is being asked to contact Athlone Garda Station on 09064 98550.