17 April 2012

Fatal Fire Treated As Arson

Police have said they believe that a fire which killed two women in County Tyrone at the weekend was started deliberately.

Elizabeth McGirr, 71, and her daughter, Deirdre, 38, died in the blaze at Dunlea Vale, Dungannon, at about 10pm on Saturday.

It is understood the mother, who lived nearby and had recently suffered from a stroke, was visiting her daughter when the fire started. They were both trapped inside the top flat of the four-flat complex.

A man in his 30s was also in the house - he managed to escape unhurt.

Sinn Féin Councillor Bronwyn McGahan has said that the community shock has turned to anger.

Councillor McGahan said: "The community was already in shock at the death of these two women but given the news today that the PSNI are now treating the fire as arson that shock has now turned to anger.

"The loss of a mother and daughter is a terrible burden to be inflicted upon a family and my thoughts are with them at this time.

"I would ask that anyone with the slightest bit of information about this horrendous crime to bring it forward immediately so that the perpetrator is caught."

At a press conference the police appealed for information regarding the fire.

The police are yet to establish a motive and have said they are keeping an open mind. They have also appealed to the person who set the fire to 'search their conscience' and come forward.

(LB/GK)