Hero PC Survives Horrific Petrol Bomb Attack
PC Darral Mares was left with severe burns to his legs and hand after being set alight during a terrifying incident in September. The brave officer was doused in petrol and engulfed in flames by 30-year-old Bulgarian national Blagovest Hadjigueorguiev, who was evicted from land near Trevenson Road.
Thanks to the quick-thinking and fearless actions of colleague PC Alan Lenton, PC Mares was dragged away from the fire and saved from worse injuries. Both officers were responding to bailiffs when Hadjigueorguiev threatened to “set them on fire” and poured petrol over them before igniting the flames.
Perp Gets 10 Years for Brutal Assault
Hadjigueorguiev, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm with intent against PC Mares, and attempting the same against PC Lenton. He was sentenced to ten-and-a-half years behind bars at Truro Crown Court.
Judge Robert Linford handed down the sentence after hearing how officers and bailiffs bravely restrained the offender amid the chaos, while emergency services quickly rushed to the scene. PC Mares was airlifted to hospital with serious burns to his hand and legs.
Officer Speaks Out on Recovery and Support
“My recuperation is ongoing but I’m healing well and expect to recover fully without further hospital stays,” PC Mares said. “I want to thank everyone who helped me and my family on that dreadful day, along with the amazing NHS staff at Treliske and Derriford Burns Unit.”
“The support from colleagues, friends and strangers across the UK and as far as Australia has been humbling, offering a welcome distraction during recovery.”
PC Mares also reflected on the dangers police officers face daily and condemned assaults on the force. Meanwhile, PC Lenton expressed hope that no one else will suffer such a cowardly attack and thanked friends, family, and colleagues for their unwavering support.
Community and Police Rally Behind Brave Officers
Detective Inspector Daniel Massey praised the investigation team’s “relentless” work in bringing Hadjigueorguiev to justice. “This case shows the risks police take every day and how well we can work with partners to protect our communities,” he said.
Both officers remain grateful for the overwhelming support, with PC Lenton highlighting the vital role of family, especially his wife Tammy, in helping him cope with the trauma of that day.
