Murder arrest after businessman dies in house fire

A tragic incident in Ballymoney, County Antrim, has led to the arrest of a 34-year-old woman on suspicion of murder following the death of Patrick 'Paddy' Douglas, a 55-year-old businessman. Emergency services responded to the house fire on Main Street shortly before 07:00 BST on Tuesday, where they found Mr. Douglas critically injured. Firefighters, equipped with breathing apparatus, bravely entered the building, extinguished the flames, and managed to rescue Mr. Douglas from the fire. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital. The local police are actively investigating the case and are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in their inquiries regarding the fire and Mr. Douglas' death.

Following the incident, local DUP councillor Darryl Wilson expressed his condolences, describing Mr. Douglas as a "well-known and liked character" in the community. His statement reflects the profound impact of this loss on the residents of Ballymoney, who are mourning the passing of a prominent figure in their town. The circumstances surrounding the fire and the subsequent arrest of the woman raise serious concerns and have sparked discussions within the community about safety and crime. Authorities are working diligently to gather evidence and understand the events that led to this tragic outcome, emphasizing the importance of public cooperation in solving the case. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains hopeful for clarity and justice in the wake of this devastating incident.