Security alert after suspicious device thrown at Co Down home

By David Young, PA

A security alert was triggered after a suspicious device was thrown at a home in Co Down causing a small fire.

The incident happened in the Firmount Crescent area of Holywood shortly after midnight on Wednesday.

There were no reports of any injuries.

We are currently at the scene of a security alert in the Firmount Crescent area of Holywood this morning.

The Old Holywood Road remains closed between its junctions with Jackson’s Road and Knocknagoney Road.

Read more: https://t.co/wNLzASf4OI pic.twitter.com/GFNQdvm3yn

— Police Ards and North Down (@PSNIArdsNDown) December 27, 2023

A PSNI statement said: “We received a report at around 12.10am that a potential suspicious device was thrown at a house in the area, causing a small fire. Officers attended alongside colleagues from the NIFRS who extinguished the fire.

“Thankfully, there were no reports of any injuries or damage caused at this time.

“Three people were seen leaving the area on foot in the direction of Holywood along Old Holywood Road.”

Officers remained at the scene on Wednesday morning and the public was asked to avoid the area amid road closures.

The PSNI statement added: “An investigation is under way and anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area or with any information which could assist with the investigation is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 21 of 27/12/23.”