Petrol bomb attack family 'have been intimidated'

A family of five targeted in a petrol bomb attack in Northern Ireland have been subjected to weeks of intimidation, it was claimed today.

Democratic Unionist Assembly member the Reverend William McCrea revealed the family, whose home in Maghera, Co Derry, sustained minor damage in the attack, had car tyres slashed and threatening phone calls before Christmas.

But the Mid Ulster MLA said: “They do not know why they are being intimidated.”

Two petrol bombs were thrown at the house in Beagh Terrace shortly after 11.30pm last night.

When police arrived on the scene they discovered one of the devices had ignited, causing minor scorch damage to the front of the house.

The second had partially ignited at the rear.

A couple and three children, aged 14, 18 and 24, were inside.

Mr McCrea, who visited the family, said: “They’re very annoyed following this attack but also resilient.

“It’s unclear why they are being targeted but I think we can all be thankful that there wasn’t a loss of life last night.

“The family has been getting threatening phone calls in recent weeks and they have had their tyres slashed.

“However this attack is a dangerous escalation of events and it is imperative that those behind this stop immediately before lives are lost. It is also imperative that the police bring those responsible to justice.”