Petrol bomb thrown at house of Co Down man with 'severe learning diffculties'
A petrol bomb has been thrown at the house of a 'vulnerable man with severe learning difficulties' in Co Down in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Last updated 19th Feb 2018
It happened at the terraced house on Dromore Street in Banbridge at around 5.30am.
A brick was first thrown through the window, with the explosive then hurled afterwards.
It missed the hole in the window and instead ignited against the outside of the house.
A police spokesperson said: "A passing taxi driver raised the alarm and helped ensure ourselves and our NIFRS colleagues were on it quickly.
"When such attacks occur, there is often speculation. Let us be clear - we know of NO reason why this man would be targeted.
"Having spoken to neighbours, they also are baffled, and understandably alarmed and angry.
"This could well be a prime example of why vigilante action and indeed gang land feuding is so dangerous to the wider innocent public and imprecise.
"We have been told a small dark car was seen making off from the area. Do you live locally?
"Did you see or hear this happen and see anything either immediately before or after that could be of use?
"Are you a taxi driver or were you driving in the area around that time and have dash cam footage?
"If so, please check it immediately before it wipes over, and contact Detective H on 101 with anything, no matter how small, that may be of use.
"Please share, help us find those responsible.
"Whoever carried out this horrific attempt on an innocent life should have no where to hide.
"If they had been slightly more accurate with their second throw, literally inches to one side, we could be dealing with a murder scene this morning. Help us find them.
"The incident number is 354 of today. You can always speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."