An investigation is underway after a car was rammed into a charity building and set alight overnight in west Belfast.
The incident happened shortly after midnight at the Welcome Centre on Townsend Street close to Belfast city centre.
Firefighters in breathing apparatus battled the blaze after a black Volkswagen Golf was rammed into the front of the building. The driver fled the scene.
Police were advising the public to avoid the area overnight, with a PSNI spokesperson confirming: “At approximately 12.15am it was reported that a car had collided with a building and a fire had started.”
Significant damage was caused to the building, police said.
Watch: Car rammed into charity building and set alight in west Belfast
The incident comes as armed response officers were pictured at the building after being called to a separate incident earlier on Monday.
Specialist officers were called to Townsend Street on Monday following reports of an armed robbery nearby.
In a statement, police said “Police are investigating an arson which caused significant damage to a charitable organisation’s building in the Townsend Street area of west Belfast.
“Shortly after midnight today, Tuesday 23rd July, a Volkswagen Golf, which is suspected stolen, was rammed in reverse against the building’s shutters and set alight. The driver ran from the scene and entry was not gained to the building.
“NI Fire and Rescue Service attended to extinguish the fire which has caused significant damage to the inside and outside of this section of the building.
“An investigation is underway and officers would appeal to anyone with any information to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 19 23/07/24. Officers are also keen to hear from anyone who would have any dash-cam or CCTV footage of the Townsend Road or wider area around this time to get in contact.”