Fatal Car Arson Shocks Co Tyrone Community

Police Launch Investigation After Body Discovered

A devastating arson attack on a vehicle in Co Tyrone has resulted in a fatality, prompting a urgent police appeal for information. The grim discovery was made on Saturday in the Rylagh Road area of Omagh.

Investigation Underway

Authorities confirmed that a body was found after firefighters extinguished a blaze that engulfed a silver Mitsubishi Lancer GS2. Police are treating the incident as arson and are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the victim’s presence beside the vehicle.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service reported the fire just before 2:05 pm. Responding officers found a person deceased at the scene when the flames were put out.

“As fire officers extinguished the blaze they discovered that, tragically, a person had died as a result of the fire.”

—Police Spokesperson

Appeal for Witnesses

Investigators are seeking anyone who was in the Rylagh Road vicinity between midday and 2:15 pm on Saturday. They are particularly interested in individuals who may have observed anything unusual or who possess dashcam or other footage of the area.

“We would be particularly keen to hear from anyone who had dashcam or other footage and would also like to hear from anyone who may have noticed this particular vehicle,” the spokesperson added.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101, quoting reference 982 02/08/25.

Community Outcry

Local representatives expressed deep concern over the incident. SDLP West Tyrone MLA **Daniel McCrossan** described the event as “deeply disturbing” and stated it has “shocked the local community.”

“My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the person who has so tragically lost their life. It is heartbreaking that someone has died in such harrowing circumstances. People in the area are understandably anxious and looking for answers.”

—Daniel McCrossan, West Tyrone MLA

According to the UK government’s latest available statistics, arson incidents in Northern Ireland saw a slight increase in the past year, highlighting ongoing challenges with such offences (NISRA 2024).

**Mr. McCrossan** emphasized the importance of community cooperation, stating, “It is critical that anyone with information – no matter how small – reports it to the PSNI. The victim’s family deserves truth and justice.” He pledged to follow developments closely and support a thorough investigation.

He also commended the rapid response of the emergency services and appealed for calm as the investigation progresses.