A 38-year-old man has been charged after a Molotov cocktail attack at a popular pub in Armagh, Northern Ireland, left two men in hospital and caused panic among patrons, including children and a musician performing at the venue.
The incident occurred at The Toby Jug pub at around 9 p.m. on Monday evening. Witnesses reported hearing the suspect shout “trick or treat” before the sound of breaking glass and flames engulfed the premises.
Video footage captured the terrifying moments that followed, as a mother clutching her child and a man carrying a guitar rushed out of the burning bar.
Victims Injured in Blaze
Two men sustained serious burn injuries and were transported to hospital. Their conditions have not yet been disclosed. Emergency services, including the fire brigade, police, and ambulance crews, arrived swiftly on the scene to contain the fire and assist victims.
Musician Sárán Ó Machail, who had been performing with his band The Two Song Club, shared his shock on Facebook:
“We didn’t expect this while playing music on a quiet Monday night in Armagh. We wish those with injuries a speedy recovery, and our thoughts are with the bar staff and owners of The Toby Jug during this difficult time. Thanks to fire, police, and ambulance for arriving at the scene quickly.”
He added that his band looks forward to seeing the pub “back on its feet soon.”
Charges Filed
Police confirmed on Tuesday evening that the suspect has been formally charged with several offences.
“The man, aged 38, has been charged with two counts of attempted murder, arson with intent to endanger life, possession of a blade or point, and three counts of criminal damage,” authorities said.
The man is scheduled to appear before Newry Magistrates Court on Wednesday, August 20.
Investigators also linked him to a series of earlier disturbances in the area. Before the Molotov attack, windows were reportedly smashed at homes on Keady Road and Cregagh Gardens. He remains in custody as police continue their inquiries.
Community Response
Local political leaders and the pub’s management have expressed their shock and condemnation of the attack.
Sinn Féin MP Dáire Hughes called it a “brazen and disgraceful attack in relative broad daylight,” adding that residents and pubgoers were left terrified.
“The fact that the fire service and PSNI acted so promptly should give some degree of comfort to the community,” Hughes said.
In a statement, The Toby Jug pub described the ordeal as devastating:
“Two people were injured and taken to hospital, and our thoughts are first and foremost with them and their families. We are also mindful of the wider impact, with residents of Creagh Gardens and Corrigan’s Court also affected by these senseless acts. No one in our community should ever feel unsafe in their home or local area.”
Witness Appeal
Police are urging the public to come forward with any information. Detectives are particularly keen to hear from those who were in the area between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. or who may have recorded video footage of the incident.
The investigation remains ongoing as the community grapples with the aftermath of a shocking attack on one of its gathering places.
