Murder Investigation Launched After Fatal Ballymoney House Fire

A 55-year-old man, Patrick ‘Paddy’ Douglas, has died following a house fire in Ballymoney on Tuesday 1st July. A 34-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of murder. Police are appealing for information.

Man Dies in Ballymoney House Fire – Murder Investigation Underway

Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Major Investigation Team have launched a murder investigation following the tragic death of 55-year-old Patrick ‘Paddy’ Douglas in a house fire on Main Street, Ballymoney, early on Tuesday 1st July.

Fire and Emergency Response

The blaze was reported shortly before 7am, with fire crews and police officers responding to the scene. Northern Ireland Ambulance Service transported Mr Douglas to hospital, but he sadly died from his injuries.

Woman Arrested

Following initial enquiries, police confirmed that a 34-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.

Appeal for Witnesses

Detective Inspector Claire McGarvey stated:

“My thoughts are with family members and loved ones who are left trying to come to terms with their loss.

We are appealing to anyone who was in the Main Street area of Ballymoney shortly before 7am on Tuesday 1st July and may have seen anything unusual to please come forward.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101, quoting reference number 196 01/07/25, or submit a report via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport.

Alternatively, you can provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.