A man has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life following a house fire in the Brandywell area of L'Derry on Monday night, 21 July.

Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) attended the scene at Bluebell Hill Gardens after the fire was reported to police just after 23:00. Firefighters successfully extinguished the blaze, which caused significant smoke and fire damage to the property. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.

Detective Sergeant Ballentine confirmed: "No-one was inside the house at the time of the fire, but a number of neighbouring properties were evacuated to allow emergency services to deal with the blaze. They have since been allowed to return to their homes." A 38-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and remains in custody for questioning.

Detectives are appealing for public assistance with their investigation.

Detective Sergeant Ballentine urged: "I am appealing to anyone who has information about the fire, or who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area just before 11pm, or has CCTV or other footage that could assist with our investigation, to call detectives at Strand Road on 101 quoting reference 1822 21/07/25."

Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/

Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/