SIX PEOPLE, INCLUDING two children, have been treated in hospital for smoke inhalation following a fire at a home in Ballyfermot, Co Dublin.

Gardaí are treating the incident as arson. 

The fire broke out at a residence on Cherry Orchard Avenue, Ballyfermot in the early hours of this morning. Gardaí responded to a report of a fire at the property at approximately 4:35am.

Dublin Fire Brigade extinguished the fire, which extensively damaged the property. Six occupants, including two children, were rescued from the house and treated in hospital for smoke inhalation. 

Gardaí are now appealing for witnesses and the fire is under investigation by members of the Crime South Unit based at Clondalkin Station. A full forensic and technical examination of the scene has been completed.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone with information relating to this incident to come forward. They are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who was in the vicinity of Cherry Orchard Avenue at the time of the incident, including road users and pedestrians.

Anyone with video footage (including dash cam) is asked to make this available to Gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Ballyfermot Garda Station on 01 666 7200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Investigations are ongoing.